What happened
Prior to departure from Halfpenny Green, the pilot performed comprehensive pre-flight inspections on G-Kines, an aircraft that had seen minimal use over the previous six months. During these checks, the pilot noted that the left main fuel tank contained 30% fuel and the right main tank contained 40%, while the auxiliary wing tanks were full and the locker tanks were empty. The pilot was also aware that the fuel gauges tended to provide over-reading measurements.
At 15:39, the aircraft type departed Halfpenny Green in clear weather for a short local flight. After reaching 2,500 feet, the pilot transitioned fuel from the main tanks to the auxiliary tanks. Shortly after, while turning back toward the airfield, the fuel selectors were switched back to the main tanks. As the aircraft approached the airport, the pilot began the landing sequence, reducing power and maneuvering for a left-hand circuit for Runway 16.
While descending on the downwind leg, both engines initially faltered during a power reduction. Although power was briefly restored and the landing gear was extended, the left engine failed completely at approximately 300 feet above ground level. Unable to feather the propeller, the pilot performed a forced landing into a field of standing crops to the northwest of the airfield. During the maneuver to avoid farm buildings, the left wing tip struck electrical power lines. The aircraft slid 50 yards and overturned during the impact. There were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the three occupants, all of whom were able to exit the inverted aircraft.
Findings
Following the accident, the pilot reported a strong odor of fuel leaking from the area of the fuel valve selectors. While the pilot managed to shut off the battery and magneto switches, the right fuel valve selector remained stuck in the ON position and could not be moved to the OFF position.