What happened
During a positioning flight from Leeds-Bradford Airport to Belfast, an aircraft experienced an in-flight emergency shortly after departure. While climbing, smoke was observed entering the cabin, originating from the camera hatch located near the starboard wing root. At an altitude of approximately 800 feet, the pilot reduced throttle and initiated a descending turn toward the left.
As the aircraft descended to roughly 400 feet, the pilot attempted to transition into a base leg and short final approach by applying full power. However, the airspeed continued to decrease despite the maximum thrust setting. The pilot noted an increasing requirement for left rudder input, leading to the conclusion that the starboard engine had failed.
In response to the loss of power, the decision was made to perform a forced landing in a field adjacent to the airport. During the final approach, the aircraft performed maneuvers to avoid high-tension wires, which resulted in a collision with a pole and a heavy impact with the ground. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss, though all three occupants escaped without injury.
Findings
- Smoke was detected in the cabin near the starboard wing root area.
- A significant loss of power occurred due to an engine failure on the starboard side.
- The aircraft struck a pole during maneuvers intended to avoid power lines during the emergency descent.