What happened
On 19 November 2011, an Emeraude CP301A, registration G-BXAH, was performing a private flight from Henstridge Airfield in Somerset. After completing engine warm-up and necessary power checks, including testing the carburettor heat, the pilot taxied the aircraft approximately 340 metres to the start of Runway 07.
During the takeoff roll and the early stages of the climb, the aircraft performed normally. However, once the aircraft reached an altitude of roughly 100 feet above the ground, the engine began to run roughly before losing power entirely. In response to the failure, the pilot issued a MAYDAY call and attempted to lower the aircraft's nose to find a suitable landing spot. During this process, the aircraft entered a left-hand spin and struck the ground, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was assisted from the wreckage by an on-site medic.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the engine failure and the subsequent flight path. Evidence from photographs of the accident site suggested that the aircraft was in the early stages of a left-hand spin at the moment of impact. The investigation also looked into the environmental conditions, noting a temperature of 15°C and a dew point of 13°C at the time of the occurrence.
Findings
- The engine failure was likely caused by carburettor icing.
- The pilot had performed a long taxi, and following this, did not apply carburettor heat to clear any potential ice before commencing the takeoff.
- The pilot's reaction to the engine failure involved a failure to move the control column forward quickly or sufficiently to prevent the stall and subsequent spin.
- The pilot noted that the change in pitch attitude required for a glide airspeed was more significant than anticipated, which contributed to the loss of control.