What happened
On 30 June 2021, a Rogers Sky Prince, registration G-CJZU, departed from Goodwood Aerodrome for a private flight. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a partial loss of engine power. As the aircraft climbed to approximately 300 ft aal, the power reduction became more significant. Witnesses observed the aircraft appearing low and slow, struggling to maintain altitude. Following a noise abatement turn, the aircraft's pitch attitude decreased, and it eventually entered a steep, uncontrolled descent. The aircraft struck the ground nose-first, followed by an intense post-impact fire. The accident resulted in two fatalities, involving both the pilot and the passenger.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation focused on the cause of the power loss and the aircraft's handling during the emergency. Examination of the Continental Motors engine revealed no pre-existing mechanical defects. While the aircraft had sufficient fuel for the flight, the post-impact fire prevented a full assessment of the fuel system's integrity or the electrical system. Investigators also considered the possibility of carburettor ice formation, noting that the weather conditions and the aircraft's taxiing on grass were conducive to icing, which can cause engine power loss if not cleared before takeoff.
Furthermore, the investigation examined the aircraft's stall characteristics. The Rogers Sky Prince lacks a natural stall warning and was not equipped with an artificial stall warning device. The investigation noted that the pilot's attention may have been diverted by the engine issues, potentially leading to a failure to monitor airspeed. As the airspeed dropped, the aircraft likely reached a stall state from which recovery was impossible at such a low altitude.
Findings
- The aircraft suffered a partial power loss after takeoff that intensified during the climb.
- The aircraft departed from controlled flight and struck the ground at a high bank angle and nose-low attitude.
- The engine power loss could not be definitively attributed to a single cause, though possibilities included carburettor icing, fuel supply issues, or ignition system faults.
- The aircraft lacked an effective stall warning mechanism, making the onset of the stall sudden and difficult to detect.
- The intense post-impact fire destroyed much of the wreckage, limiting the ability to inspect the fuel and electrical systems.