What happened
On 11 May 2015, a Piper PA-28-161, registration G-BZMT, was conducting a training flight from White Waltham Airfield in Berkshire. Following a normal engine power check and departing from Runway 25, the aircraft's engine failed once the plane had reached an altitude of approximately 200 feet.
Upon the loss of power, the instructor assumed control of the aircraft and issued a MAYDAY call. Due to the low altitude, the instructor decided to maneuver the aircraft into a field located directly beneath the flight path. The aircraft touched down with full flaps at a heading of roughly 90 degrees, sliding approximately 50 meters across the ground before striking a fence and an earth bank.
Following the impact, a fire broke out in the right side of the engine compartment. While the instructor attempted to use a hand fire extinguisher, the fire persisted until airfield first responders arrived. The student sustained minor injuries, specifically severe bruising to the chest, back, and legs, and was transported to a hospital. The instructor remained uninjured. The aircraft was subsequently determined to be beyond economic repair.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the engine failure and the subsequent fire. The investigation noted that the student had difficulty moving the fuel selector valve to the 'off' position due to the safety catch, ultimately leaving the valve in the 'on' position while the engine compartment was burning.
Physical damage to the Piper PA-28-161 was extensive, including a distorted engine mount, damaged fuel pipes, and a punctured left fuel tank. The nose and right main landing gear leg were also broken during the landing sequence.