What happened
On 3 November 2013, a volunteer search crew was dispatched to locate two fishermen near Les Écréhous in the English Channel. The mission was initiated following a request for assistance, with reports indicating the fishermen were in a small dinghy or in the water. At the time of the flight, the Channel Islands were experiencing severe weather, including heavy rain, low cloud cover below 1,000 feet, turbulence, and strong southerly winds gusting to 41 knots.
During the pre-flight phase, certain checks were omitted; specifically, fuel quantities were not verified and a water drain check was not performed. The pilot conducted a rapid start and a takeoff that, while unremarkable, occurred in significant crosswinds. During the climb, the pilot descended to 500 or 600 feet to maintain visual reference due to the low cloud ceiling, which increased the pilot's workload as constant control inputs were required to manage turbulence.
While flying north of Jersey, the pilot noted an abnormality in the engine note. Shortly thereafter, the right-hand engine experienced RPM surges and the fuel pressure gauge fluctuated. The pilot attempted to manage the situation by applying full throttle and switching on the electric fuel pumps. After declaring a MAYDAY, the right-hand engine failed completely. Shortly after, the left-hand engine also stopped.
Attempting to reach Jersey Airport, the pilot navigated with limited visibility. The aircraft eventually touched down on a slope, sliding downhill and through a hedge before coming to a stop against a tree. The impact caused significant damage to the airframe. Despite the difficulty of exiting the aircraft due to a jammed door, all 5 occupants escaped without injury.
Findings
- The pilot's workload was significantly increased by the necessity of maintaining control in heavy turbulence and low visibility.
- The failure of both engines led to the loss of power and the subsequent emergency landing.
- Pre-flight procedures were incomplete, as the crew did not verify fuel levels or perform necessary drainage checks.
- The pilot relied on memory for engine and takeoff checks rather than utilizing the provided written checklists.