What happened
On 20 September 2015, a MCR-01 Club, registration G-DGHI, was performing a local flight from a farm strip in Bethersden, Kent. While approximately 2 nautical miles from the base, the pilot experienced an engine misfire. In an effort to evaluate wind conditions using the strip's windsocks, the pilot flew past the airfield, during which time a second misfire occurred.
As the pilot prepared for a landing on Runway 14, the approach was flown slightly high and slow. This specific profile was intended to ensure the aircraft could clear large oak trees located in the runway undershoot area in the event of an engine failure. During the short final phase, the pilot determined the aircraft was too high and initiated a go-around procedure. Upon applying full power, the engine misfired a third time and ceased operation entirely.
In an attempt to avoid soft ground, the pilot steered the aircraft toward the overshoot area. The aircraft touched down on the grass beyond the strip before sliding into an adjacent crop field, where the nosewheel became embedded in the earth, bringing the aircraft to a halt. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of engine malfunctions and the pilot's decision-making regarding the approach profile and the subsequent go-around attempt. The inspection focused on the engine's performance during the application of full power and the resulting impact with the ground.