What happened
On 23 September 2022, a Nord NC856A, registration G-CGWR, was performing a private flight near Spanhoe Airfield in Northamptonshire. During the initial climb following a routine takeoff, the aircraft's engine experienced a misfire, resulting in a sudden loss of power.
Upon detecting the smell of fuel, the pilot performed an emergency landing. The aircraft came to a stop just off the runway, remaining within the airfield boundaries. As the aircraft reached a standstill, a flash fire erupted on the port side of the airframe. The pilot managed to evacuate the aircraft safely and sustained no injuries. Although airport personnel attempted to suppress the flames using fire extinguishers, the fire spread quickly and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation examined the engine and fuel systems, noting that all pre-takeoff checks for engine oil, temperature, and power had been completed normally. There was no evidence of recent disturbances to the engine or fuel systems since the previous annual Permit to Fly inspections. Previous flight data indicated that fuel consumption and engine performance had been within expected parameters.
Findings
- The engine misfire and subsequent power loss occurred during the initial climb phase.
- A failure within the fuel system likely allowed Avgas to escape into the engine bay.
- The escaped fuel ignited upon contact with hot engine components, leading to a fuel-fed fire that rapidly consumed the aircraft.