What happened
On 16 July 2019, an Ikarus C42 FB100 Bravo, registration G-IRED, was performing a private flight from Clench Common Airfield to Deanland Airfield. The aircraft was returning to its home base following recent engine maintenance. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot conducted a five-minute engine run and completed all necessary pre-flight checks without incident.
Approximately 16 minutes into the flight, the pilot noticed that the engine oil pressure had dropped to zero. The pilot notified Air Traffic Control of the intention to divert to Popham Airfield. Within 45 seconds of the pressure drop, the engine ceased operation entirely. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing in a wheat field located roughly 3 miles west of Popham Airfield. During the landing sequence, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position. The pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the engine components to determine the cause of the power loss. They observed a film of engine oil covering the underside of the aircraft's fuselage. An inspection of the engine confirmed that a total loss of oil had occurred during the brief duration of the flight.