Accident Details
On 3 September 2011 at 1045 UTC, two light aircraft were involved in a taxiway collision at Northampton (Sywell) Aerodrome, Northamptonshire. The aircraft were a DHC-1 Chipmunk 22, registration G-BDDD, and a Vans RV-4, registration G-IIGI. Both were operating as private flights. The Chipmunk carried one pilot and one passenger; the RV-4 carried only its pilot. Neither occupant was injured. Both pilots held Private Pilot’s Licences.
Sequence of Events
Both aircraft had landed on Runway 21R during the LAA Sywell Rally. The RV-4 landed first and was directed by marshals to hold at taxiway A2. The Chipmunk landed subsequently. While taxiing, the pilot of the Chipmunk looked down to locate his taxiway chart. As a result, he did not see the stationary RV‑4 on the taxiway ahead, nor did he observe the marshals signalling for his aircraft to hold. By the time he became aware of the RV‑4, it was too late to take corrective action, and the two aircraft collided.
Damage
The Chipmunk sustained damage to its left wingtip and spar fitting, propeller, right wing leading edge, and rear fuselage. The RV‑4 sustained damage to its tail section, rear fuselage, and engine cowling.
Investigation
The pilot of the Chipmunk submitted an Aircraft Accident Report Form. The investigation did not assign a formal probable cause in the bulletin. The information was sourced from the AAIB Bulletin: 12/2011.