What happened
On 27 August 2016, a Socata TB10 Tobago, registration G-MRTN, was conducting a private flight near Henstridge Airfield in Somerset. During the initial takeoff phase, the pilot observed that the takeoff roll exceeded expected durations and noted that the aircraft's rate of climb was below 400 ft/min. Following these observations, the decision was made to abort the takeoff and return to the airfield.
During the return, a burning odor became apparent within the cockpit, accompanied by white smoke emerging from the engine cowling. As the aircraft reached approximately 500 ft agl, the engine power began to diminish while the smoke intensified. The pilot issued a MAYDAY call, shut off the fuel supply, and executed a forced landing in a nearby field. There were no injuries to the pilot or the three passengers on board.
Following the landing, the occupants evacuated the aircraft via the two doors. The pilot subsequently used a fire extinguisher to suppress flames that had developed in the engine bay and lower fuselage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the sequence of events leading to the engine failure and the subsequent fire. The pilot, who held an instructor rating and possessed recent experience in practicing forced landings, provided the primary account of the incident. The investigation focused on the mechanical failure that led to the loss of power and the ignition of the fire.
Findings
- The investigation established that the exhaust system had become detached.
- This detachment allowed hot gases to escape, which ignited a fire within the engine bay.
- The fire caused damage to both the engine compartment and the lower section of the fuselage.
- The successful outcome of the forced landing was attributed to the pilot's proficiency in emergency procedures and the relatively low altitude at which the fire occurred.