History of the Flight
The aircraft, a Cessna 120 registration G-BPWD, was being prepared for renewal of its Permit to Fly. After performing all usual engine ground run checks, the pilot and passenger, who was also a pilot, taxied to the holding point of Runway 04R for magneto checks, which were satisfactory. The aircraft lined up and took off normally.
At a height of about 250 ft, both occupants detected what they described as a momentary "flutter" from the engine. The engine stopped but then picked up again. As a precaution, they decided to return to Hucknall Airfield. They turned to the north to avoid woods to the south, which presented a corn field that the pilot judged would make an acceptable forced landing field in case the engine stopped. Shortly afterwards, the engine did stop. Being unable to make the airfield, the pilot landed in the field. During the landing, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing major damage to the aircraft, including the left main landing gear, fuselage floor pan, and left wing. Both occupants sustained minor back injuries but were able to exit the aircraft unaided.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The Cessna 120, manufactured in 1946, was powered by a single Continental Motors Corp O-240-E piston engine. The commander, aged 70, held a Private Pilot's Licence with 640 hours total flying experience, of which 310 hours were on type. His recent flying included 2 hours in the last 90 days and none in the last 28 days.
Investigation
Both occupants believed the engine's behavior was consistent with fuel starvation. However, when they removed the carburettor bowl, there was ample fuel present and the accelerator pump worked normally. An in-depth investigation of the engine is planned, and any significant findings will be reported in a future AAIB Bulletin addendum.