History of the Flight
The aircraft, a DH82A Tiger Moth registered G-AMTF, was on a private flight from Lashenden (Headcorn) to Spanhoe near Corby on 30 November 2012. While en route, the engine began to run roughly. The pilot reduced power and checked each magneto, but the issue persisted. Shortly thereafter, a large amount of smoke appeared on the left side of the cowling, and oil ran down the side of the fuselage. The pilot noticed that the oil pressure had dropped to zero or close to zero and realized that a forced landing was now inevitable.
Forced Landing
The pilot selected a field for the forced landing, though his choice was limited by power and telephone lines, as well as crops and trees. The aircraft touched down in the field and rolled into a hedge and fence at the end at an estimated speed of 5-10 mph. The pilot was unhurt and telephoned Headcorn to advise them, having previously broadcast a MAYDAY call to them.
Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the lower wing leading edges, spars, upper wing fabric, and engine. No other damage was noted.
Investigation
At the time of preparation of the AAIB Bulletin, the cause of the engine power loss remained undetermined. It was understood that the No 3 cylinder showed no compression and that a quantity of oil remained in the oil tank. The investigation did not identify any other contributing factors.