What happened
On 25 March 2005, a Europa XL with registration N802 and U was preparing for a private flight from Kemble Airfield. The pilot and his daughter, both experienced pilots, had arrived at the airfield earlier that morning. After taxiing to the runway, the aircraft commenced its takeoff roll at approximately 1437 hrs.
During the initial climb, witnesses observed the aircraft descending in a manner resembling a spiral dive. The aircraft entered a spin with a nose-down attitude of approximately 40 degrees and rapid rotation. Due to the low altitude at which the maneuver began, there was insufficient height for the crew to attempt a recovery. The aircraft struck the ground near the edge of the airfield, and a post-crash fire ensued. Both the pilot and the passenger, the pilot's daughter, sustained two fatalities.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the wreckage, the engine, and the aircraft's flight history. Investigators analyzed the propeller and reduction gearing, finding that while the propeller appeared to have stopped rotating at impact, this was likely due to the shaft being displaced aft and contacting the gearbox casing rather than a loss of engine power. The engine was found to be free from mechanical or structural failure, and no evidence of carburetor icing was identified.
Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's construction. While later models of the Europa kit included modifications to improve stall behavior, this specific aircraft lacked stall strips on the wing leading edges. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot's UK license had administrative irregularities regarding a recent class rating renewal, though he was otherwise considered to be in good flying practice.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a spin during the early stages of the climb-out.
- The precise trigger for the spin remains unknown, though a climb at an excessively steep angle may have caused a loss of airspeed.
- The aircraft lacked any effective stall warning or aerodynamic features to mitigate wing-drop during a stall.
- There was no evidence of mechanical failure or engine power loss contributing to the accident.
- The pilot likely lacked the specific spin recovery training or the necessary altitude to recover from the high-rate rotation.