Aircraft Information
The aircraft involved was a Jabiru SK, registration G-BXAO, powered by a single Jabiru Aircraft PTY 2200A piston engine. It was manufactured in 1997. The commander, aged 60, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 633 flying hours, 9 of which were on type. The flight was private, with one passenger on board.
Accident Sequence
On 3 May 1998 at 1350 UTC, the aircraft took off from Shobdon. During the initial climb, the right side of the top engine cowl became loose and lifted off its seating, remaining attached only by the left side pin and clip. The loose cowl struck the propeller, causing minor damage to the leading edge of the tip. The flapping cowl restricted the pilot's forward view and created significant drag, preventing the aircraft from climbing. The aircraft remained at an altitude of about 100 feet on the extended runway centreline. The pilot transmitted an intention to make a left circuit, but as the turn began, the left wing dropped and the aircraft appeared to stall, crashing into an orchard containing young apple trees. The pilot of a following Robinson R22 witnessed the accident, landed in an adjoining field, and ran to the aircraft to turn off the battery master switch and fuel cock. Despite considerable damage to the fuselage, both occupants sustained relatively minor injuries and were able to walk from the aircraft when the ambulance arrived.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination revealed that the engine top cowl was a one-piece construction, secured on either side by an overcentre latch with an 'R' clip as a safety device. The cowl had been opened before flight. Although the latch was found closed with the clip fitted after the accident, there was a strong possibility that the latch had not been engaged over the corresponding attachment on the bottom cowl. It was reported that in this configuration the cowl can appear flush during a cursory inspection but is actually insecure.
Safety Actions
The manufacturer produced a modification designed to prevent the cowl from opening in such events. The modification became available shortly before this accident and was initially offered to kit builders. The UK distributor intended to notify other owners through the Popular Flying Association (PFA) and to publish an article in their newsletter emphasizing the need for careful attention to the security of these latches during pre-flight inspections.