What happened
On 19 October 2015, a Silent 2 Electro, registration G-CIYA, was performing a self-launch from the paved taxiway at Husbands Bosont Airfield in Leicestershire. The pilot, who had recently taken delivery of the aircraft, was conducting his first flight on this specific type.
During the initial climb, the aircraft's pitch attitude increased significantly, causing concern for a ground witness. At approximately 100 feet above the ground, the aircraft stalled and entered a left-hand incipient spin. The right wing of the aircraft struck the roof of a farm building before the fuselage and the left wing impacted the ground. The pilot sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and the flight history of the aircraft. The investigation found that the aircraft had been correctly rigged and that the mass and center of gravity were within permitted limits. The electric propulsion system appeared to be functioning normally at the time of the accident, as evidenced by propeller damage indicating the motor was under power during impact.
While the pilot was an experienced glider and light aircraft pilot, he had no prior experience on this specific model. The investigation also looked into the cockpit environment, noting a loose seat cushion, though it was determined unlikely to have interfered with control. The investigation could not definitively rule out whether something inside the cockpit restricted the movement of the control column, given the extensive damage to the cockpit area.
Findings
- The aircraft entered an incipient spin following an excessive pitch attitude during the climb.
- There was no evidence of mechanical failure or defect in the electric propulsion system or the aircraft's airworthiness.
- The Ballistic Parachute Recovery System (BPRS) was not activated during the accident.
- The investigation highlighted risks to first responders, noting that the BPRS was difficult to disarm and that external warning placards were insufficient to alert emergency personnel to the presence of a ballistic rocket.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the AAIB made a Safety Recommendation to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to ensure that BPRS installations and placarding on Single Seat Deregulated (SSDR) aircraft meet the same stringent requirements as aircraft operating under a UK Permit to Fly.