Accident Overview
On 18 July 2013 at 1650 UTC, a Jabiru UL-450 (registration G-ODGS) operated by a private pilot experienced an engine misfire shortly after takeoff from Manchester Barton Airport. The pilot, the sole occupant, remained uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and nose landing gear.
Flight Details
The aircraft departed from Runway 27R, a 518-meter grass strip. Immediately after lifting off, the engine began to misfire. The pilot focused on avoiding nearby obstacles and managed to climb to approximately 300 feet above ground level. He radioed the Air/Ground Communications Service (AFISO) and was advised that Runway 20, a 532-meter grass runway, was available. With the engine still misfiring, the pilot conducted an abbreviated approach. The aircraft arrived over the runway with excessive speed and bounced upon landing. The nose landing gear was torn from the aircraft, which came to rest on its main wheels and the lower engine cowling.
The pilot reported that the aircraft had stood all day in warm, calm conditions; the temperature at Manchester International Airport reached a maximum of 28°C that day. He suspected that vapour lock in the fuel system had disrupted fuel flow to the engine.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The 54-year-old pilot held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had logged 175 flying hours, of which 145 were on the Jabiru UL-450. In the preceding 90 days, he had flown 8 hours, with 4 hours in the last 28 days. The aircraft, manufactured in 2003 (serial number PFA 274A-13472), was powered by a single Jabiru Aircraft Pty 2200A piston engine.
Post-accident Examination
A subsequent engine examination by a maintenance organization revealed no abnormalities other than those attributable to the sudden engine stoppage that occurred when the propeller struck the ground during the landing.