What happened
On 11 February 2022, a Piper PA-32-300, registration G-KNOW, was performing a private return flight from Lee-on-Solent to Lydd. While flying over the Steyning Valley in the South Downs, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine several times and transmitted a mayday call to Brighton City Airport.
During the descent, the aircraft's airspeed decreased significantly. The pilot turned the aircraft to avoid built-up areas, but the aircraft eventually struck rising ground in the valley. The impact was severe, causing the aircraft to roll and the engine to be driven upwards. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and the aircraft's fuel system. Investigators found that while the aircraft had sufficient total fuel to complete the flight, the specific tank being used had run out of usable fuel. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's GPS and engine monitoring data, noting that the audio alert for the 'switch fuel tanks' function had been disabled.
Analysis of the cockpit controls showed that the engine power loss and power-off landing checklists had not been completed. The investigation also looked into the 'startle effect' and how the sudden loss of power influenced the pilot's decision-making and ability to execute emergency procedures.