What happened
On 8 June 2024, a Pitts S-2A, registration G-TIII, was taxiing at Blackpool Airport during a private flight. The pilot had intended to take an employee for a flight, having previously briefed the passenger on procedures, including how to exit the aircraft and what to do if feeling unwell. The passenger, who was using a booster seat, reported feeling confined due to limited forward visibility.
During the taxi phase, the passenger began to feel anxious and requested that the flight be cancelled. The pilot obtained clearance to return to the hangar. As the aircraft approached a parking position on the apron, the passenger experienced a sudden panic attack and attempted to unfasten his safety straps and open the canopy. In the process of these movements, the passenger accidentally advanced the throttle. Although the pilot attempted to maintain control of the lever and subsequently cut the engine, the aircraft could not be stopped in time, resulting in a collision with a vertical post and a parked aircraft. There were no injuries to the pilot or passenger, though both aircraft sustained damage.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the sequence of events leading to the impact and the passenger's physical and emotional state. The investigation established that the passenger, who had no prior flying experience, felt claustrophobic due to the cockpit environment. The investigator also consulted a clinical psychologist to understand the triggers for such reactions, noting that sensations such as noise, turbulence, or restricted vision can induce panic.
Findings
- The passenger's sudden attempt to exit the aircraft while taxiing led to the unintended movement of the throttle.
- The pilot's attempt to brake and shut down the engine was insufficient to prevent the collision.
- The passenger's lack of forward vision and the enclosed nature of the aircraft contributed to a feeling of being trapped.