Introduction
On 5 August 2016 at 1131 UTC, a Piper PA-22-150 Tri-Pacer (N6830B) was involved in an accident at Wyke Oliver Farm, Weymouth, Dorset. The aircraft was manufactured in 1956 and was powered by a single Lycoming O-320 piston engine. The flight was conducted under a Private Pilot’s Licence by the 51-year-old commander, who had accumulated 288 total flying hours, including 59 hours on type. The aircraft carried the pilot and two passengers.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot’s report, while cruising at approximately 1,700 ft amsl, he selected the carburettor heat on. The engine subsequently lost power, with the rpm decreasing from 2,300 to 1,500. Selecting the carburettor heat off produced no change, so he reselected it on. He moved the throttle lever forwards and backwards and selected a different fuel tank, but neither action restored engine power. The pilot transmitted a distress call to Yeovilton Radar and then focused on landing in a suitable field.
The aircraft touched down in the field at 60 mph but bounced back into the air when it ran over a bump. It touched down again, and the pilot began to brake. However, he was unable to bring the aircraft to a halt before it struck an obstacle and turned onto its back.
Aftermath
The three occupants exited the aircraft through the normal exits. The pilot and both passengers sustained minor injuries. The aircraft sustained extensive damage. The cause of the engine power loss was not determined.