What happened
On 13 October 2002, a Europa, registration G-BWZT, departed from Crowfields grass Runway 13 for a brief local flight. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and one passenger. The weather conditions were characterized by fine visibility and light winds, though the environment was damp and forecasts indicated deteriorating conditions.
Following a normal takeoff, the crew raised the flaps and landing gear as the aircraft cleared the runway. While the passenger noted that maximum RPM was maintained during the initial climb, the aircraft suffered a loss of power at an altitude between 1s50 and 200 feet. Unable to sustain flight, the pilot executed a gentle left turn to avoid obstacles and performed a forced landing in a large stubble field. The landing gear remained retracted during the maneuver to prevent the aircraft from overturning. Both occupants exited the aircraft without any injuries, though the aircraft sustained damage to its propeller and cowling.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine and fuel systems to determine the cause of the power loss. While the pilot initially suspected fuel starvation, inspections revealed that the carburettor bowls contained full, uncontaminated fuel. Furthermore, the fuel filters, as well as both the electrical and mechanical fuel pumps, were found to be in satisfactory working order. Although the pilot did not believe the Rotax 912-UL engine installation was highly susceptible to carburettor icing, the investigation considered this a potential factor given the damp atmospheric conditions present during the flight.