What happened
On 10 July 2012, a Dynamic WT9 UK, registration G-EECC, was conducting a private flight near West Lydford, Somerset. While the pilot was attempting to switch fuel supply between the aircraft's two tanks, the fuel selector lever detached from the valve assembly as it was being moved through the 'off' position.
Following the mechanical failure, the pilot attempted to manually manipulate the valve with his fingers to restore fuel flow, but was unsuccessful. This resulted in the engine stopping several seconds later. The pilot contacted Yeovilton ATC and declared a PAN-PAN emergency. While maneuvering to land in a nearby field, the pilot became distracted by communications with air traffic control. Consequently, the aircraft was positioned for a landing in a field to the left, but the aircraft overshot the intended area, striking a fence and a hedge before coming to a halt. The pilot escaped the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the fuel selector lever and the subsequent landing sequence. Investigators examined the valve assembly and the cockpit controls. It was noted that the aircraft's fuel system utilizes a three-position lever to manage the two tanks and an 'off' position.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was the detachment of the fuel selector lever from the valve assembly during the transition between fuel tanks.
- The pilot's concentration on the emergency landing was diverted by the necessity of responding to ATC instructions.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, nosegear, and both the left and right wing roots.