History of the Flight
The pilot, the sole occupant, departed Bournemouth Airport in G-MAIE after a 30-minute ground stop, intending to return to Daedalus Airfield, from where he had departed earlier that day. After leveling at 1,800 ft amsl, the pilot selected cruise power and turned off the electric fuel pump. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to run roughly. The pilot turned the electric fuel pump back on and switched fuel tanks, but the roughness persisted. Leaning the fuel mixture had no effect, so the mixture was returned to fully rich.
Deciding to continue, the pilot crossed Solent Waters and set up for a downwind join for Runway 23 at Daedalus. No PAN call was transmitted. On downwind, he observed a glider and tug aircraft operating on the airfield and announced his position by radio. He was informed that the glider launch would be expedited. However, on finals at 300 ft agl, the glider had not yet begun its takeoff roll. The pilot applied power to go around, but the engine did not respond. Forced to land in a grass field short of Runway 23, the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Damage and Investigation
The damage comprised a nose gear collapse and damage to the propeller, engine, engine cowling, and nosewheel gear doors. The pilot was uninjured and vacated the aircraft after turning off fuel and electrics. A total of 50 US gallons of fuel were found onboard, and testing showed no water or other contaminants. The engine and ancillaries were removed and sent for overhaul, but despite extensive examination, no fault was identified.