What happened
On 9 June 2012, a Jodel D112, registration G-BHHX, was conducting a private local flight near Honiton, Devon. Following standard pre-flight procedures and engine warm-up, the pilot taxied to the hold on Runway 22. Upon applying full power for takeoff, the engine began to lose power during the initial climb.
The pilot attempted several emergency procedures, including checking fuel and magneto switches, adjusting the throttle, and engaging carburettor heat, but the engine failed to return to normal operation. At an estimated altitude of 100 feet, the pilot identified the only available landing field and maneuvered the aircraft toward it.
During the descent, the aircraft likely stalled at a low altitude and struck the ground. The impact caused the entire nose section, including the engine and instrument panel, to detach from the fuselage. The pilot was found suspended upside down in his harness, while the passenger was able to exit through a gap in the fuselage. The pilot sustained a minor head injury, and the passenger remained uninjured. The aircraft was damaged beyond economic repair.
The investigation
AAIB investigators examined the wreckage and analyzed ground markings at the landing site. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's nose and engine assembly had broken away upon impact. While the pilot could not precisely recall the moments between the decision to land and the impact, the physical evidence of the ground tracks and wreckage supported the conclusion that the aircraft had stalled at a low height.
Findings
- The engine experienced a loss of power during the takeoff climb.
- The specific cause of the engine power loss remained undetermined, as no external anomalies were visible on the engine.
- The aircraft likely entered a stall at a low altitude, leading to the impact.