What happened
On 2 June 2011, a Cessna 120, registration G-BPWD, was conducting a flight to facilitate the renewal of its Permit to Fly. Following standard engine ground checks and magneto tests, the pilot and passenger taxied to the holding point of Runway 04R and commenced a normal takeoff.
At an altitude of approximately 250 feet, the occupants experienced a brief engine flutter. Although the engine resumed operation, the crew decided to return to Hucknall Airfield as a safety precaution. To avoid wooded areas to the south, the pilot turned the aircraft toward the north, which led over a corn field. Shortly after this maneuver, the engine ceased running. The pilot attempted a forced landing in the field, but the impact caused the left main landing gear to collapse. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the left wing, the fuselage floor pan, and the left main landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the cause of the engine failure and the circumstances of the landing. Both occupants believed the engine behavior was indicative of fuel starvation. During the examination of the engine, investigators found that the carburettor bowl contained sufficient fuel and that the accelerator pump was functioning correctly.
Findings
- The engine failure occurred during a return to the airfield following a momentary engine flutter.
- The landing took place in a corn field adjacent to Hucknall Airfield.
- The two occupants sustained minor injuries but were able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
- Fuel starvation was ruled out as the investigation confirmed ample fuel was present in the carburettor bowl and the accelerator pump operated normally.