What happened
On 25 September 2023, a Skyranger Swift 912, registration G-CJXF, was performing a private flight departing from a large field located approximately 1 nm south of Dunstable, Bedfordshire. Shortly after the aircraft became airborne, the pilot observed a heron on an intercepting path. In an attempt to avoid a collision, the pilot banked the aircraft to the left. While the aircraft narrowly avoided the heron, a second bird struck the propeller.
Following the impact, the engine experienced a momentary cough but continued to operate. However, the pilot determined that the resulting loss of power would prevent the aircraft from clearing the upcoming treeline. To manage the situation, the pilot focused on maintaining airspeed and steered the aircraft toward the right to avoid the highest trees. Just before the aircraft entered the hedgerow, the pilot shut down the engine. The aircraft came to rest in the bushes, and the pilot was able to exit the cockpit using a ladder without sustaining any injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and the site, noting damage to the propeller and minor damage to the aircraft's fabric skin. Evidence of the strike was confirmed by the discovery of a pigeon carcass and blood on the propeller.
Further inquiry revealed that a fountain in a nearby pond had activated via a timer at the same time as the takeoff. The pilot suggested that the sudden noise from this fountain may have startled the birds, causing them to take flight during the departure phase. The pilot also noted that he had previously briefed himself on emergency procedures for an engine failure prior to takeoff, specifically planning a turn to the right toward a larger field.
Findings
- The engine lost power due to a bird strike involving a pigeon.
- The pilot's decision to maintain airspeed and steer away from the tallest trees helped ensure the flight remained controlled until impact.
- Pre-flight preparation and rehearsing engine-failure procedures likely contributed to the successful management of the emergency and the avoidance of serious injury.