Incident
On 10 January 2018, at approximately 1330 UTC, a Piper PA-32R-301 Saratoga SP, registration G-ELLA, experienced an in-flight opening of the forward baggage bay door near the Compton VOR. The aircraft was conducting a training flight with two crew members on board.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft was manufactured in 1996 and powered by a single Lycoming IO-540-K1G5 piston engine. The commander, aged 68, held a Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 11,600 flying hours, with over 200 hours on type. His recent flying experience included 80 hours in the last 90 days and 17 hours in the last 28 days.
Sequence of Events
Prior to departure, the aircraft owner performed a pre-flight inspection. During this inspection, he removed the aircraft cover and stored it inside the forward baggage bay. The flight proceeded normally until, after practicing a stall, the baggage bay door opened unexpectedly. The cover was sucked out of the bay and struck the wing before detaching from the airframe. The baggage bay door remained open in the slipstream for the remainder of the flight. The crew reported no control difficulties and returned to White Waltham airfield, where the aircraft landed safely.
Damage and Outcome
The incident resulted in damage to the forward baggage bay door only. The instructor attributed the opening to the door not being properly secured during the pre-flight inspection. After repair, the aircraft was returned to service without further issues.