What happened
On 7 November 1998, an Evans VP-1 Series 2, registration G-BKFI, was conducting a private flight in the vicinity of Rayne Hall Farm, East Englesfield, Essex. Following an initial 45-minute flight in the local area, the pilot landed and subsequently took off again towards the east using full power, leaving the engine running between flights. After the second departure, the aircraft turned north.
While maintaining an altitude of approximately 500 feet, the engine suffered a loss of power. The pilot lowered the nose to maintain the best glide speed and applied carburettor heat, which successfully restored engine power. Because the pilot did not observe any physical signs of ice melting, such as engine spluttering, the carburettor heat was subsequently cancelled. Within 20 seconds, the engine lost power once more, though power was regained again upon reselecting the carburettor heat. The pilot decided to return to the departure airfield, turning the aircraft in a westerly direction.
During the approach and landing, the engine remained operational. However, the aircraft's nose struck the ground, causing damage to the propeller and the landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation examined the engine performance, the environmental conditions, and the pilot's actions during the power loss. Investigators reviewed the meteorological data, noting an air temperature of +12°C and a dew point of +8°C. The pilot provided information regarding the engine's behavior and the lack of visible indicators of icing. The investigation also assessed the pilot's control of the aircraft during the final stages of the flight and the impact of wind conditions.