Factual Summary
On 1 August 2023, at 1254 UTC, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration G-AVSC) departed from Dunkeswell Aerodrome for a private flight intended to revalidate the aircraft owner's Private Pilot Licence. The commander, a 73-year-old pilot holding an Airline Transport Pilot Licence with 7,600 total flying hours (250 on type), was acting as instructor. The aircraft was manufactured in 1967 and powered by a single Lycoming O-360-A4A piston engine.
Sequence of Events
The flight proceeded to an area near Seaton, Devon, where the instructor demonstrated an engine failure procedure at an altitude of 2,200 ft and a target airspeed of 80 kt. As the instructor applied nose-up pitch, a loud bang was heard, and the aircraft immediately pitched down with severe buffeting. The instructor regained control and assessed that a forced landing was the only safe option. He chose a nearby field for the landing. After touchdown, the aircraft could not be stopped before entering a river at approximately 30 kt. It struck the opposite bank and came to rest.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and nose gear leg. One crew member (the pilot) reported minor injuries, though the pilot later stated that neither occupant was injured.
Probable Cause
After the event, the instructor found that the baggage compartment door was open and the canvas aircraft cover was missing. He attributed the accident to the compartment door opening in flight, which released the aircraft cover. The cover temporarily affected the airflow over the elevator, causing the uncommanded pitch change.