What happened
On 1 August 2023, a Piper PA-28-180, registration G-AVSC, was conducting a private flight departing from Dunkeswell Aerodrome. The purpose of the flight was to revalidate the aircraft owner's Private Pilot's Licence. During the flight, the instructor was demonstrating engine failure procedures at an altitude of 2,200 ft with a target airspeed of 80 kt.
While the instructor applied a nose-up pitch, a loud bang was heard, followed by an immediate nose-down pitch and severe buffeting. Following the recovery of control, the instructor decided to perform a forced landing in a nearby field. During the landing sequence, the aircraft was unable to stop before entering a river at approximately 30 kt, eventually coming to rest after hitting the opposite bank. The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the nose gear leg. There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.
The investigation
The investigation examined the circumstances surrounding the sudden change in aircraft attitude. It was noted that the baggage compartment door was open during the flight, and the canvas aircraft cover was missing. The investigation established that the opening of the compartment door allowed the aircraft's cover to be released into the airflow.
Findings
- The sudden pitch change was caused by the release of the aircraft's cover, which disrupted the airflow over the elevator.
- The baggage compartment door had opened during flight, leading to the loss of the cover.
- The pilot's decision to land in a field was made as the only safe option following the loss of stable flight characteristics.