What happened
On 2 May 2004, a Cessna 175B Skylark, registration G-ARFL, was performing a private flight near Acle, Norfolk. After completing several local legs, the pilot attempted to land at a private grass airstrip. During the final approach, the pilot determined the airspeed was too high and decided to execute a go-around.
To prepare for the maneuver, the pilot applied full power and had previously set the elevator to a full nose-up trim position. As power was applied, the aircraft experienced an intense and rapid nose-up pitch. During this high-attitude climb, the engine ceased operation, and the aircraft entered a stall. In an attempt to avoid nearby buildings, the pilot applied right aileron, which caused the right wing to drop further. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground with substantial damage to the airframe and engine, resulting in one serious injury to the pilot.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation focused on the engine's sudden failure and the aircraft's handling characteristics during the go-around. Investigators examined the fuel system, including the tanks, lines, and the Gascolator filter. While the right tank was found to be nearly full, the left tank contained very little fuel.
Examination of the carburettor revealed that the fuel level in the float chamber was significantly lower than expected. Although the fuel system was found to be free of obstructions and leaks during post-accident testing, the cause of the low fuel level in the carburettor could not be determined. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's center of gravity was near the forward limit, and the high nose-up trim setting contributed to the extreme pitching moment during the power increase.