Incident Details
On 31 July 1999 at 1540 hours UTC, a Luscombe Silvaire 8F, registration G-BTJC, was involved in an accident at Glebe Farm, Stockton, Wiltshire. The aircraft was on a private test flight following extensive radio work. The pilot, who held a Private Pilot's Licence and was 49 years old, had 166 hours total flying experience, with 20 hours on type and only 1 hour in the previous 28 days. There was one person on board, the pilot, and no passengers.
Flight History
During the initial takeoff, the airspeed indicator (ASI) appeared to function normally. However, during the climb the ASI pointer stuck at 60 mph, and both the altimeter and vertical speed indicator were sluggish. The pilot then performed a handling check, during which the ASI reading at the stall seemed approximately correct. He subsequently conducted an approach to the airfield with the aircraft trimmed nose-up. On this approach, the ASI indicated an airspeed of 120 mph.
Accident Sequence
As the aircraft neared the threshold, the pilot encountered a 'sink' (a sudden descent). Despite immediately increasing power, the aircraft touched down just short of the runway threshold. It then nosed over and came to rest inverted on the runway. The pilot evacuated without injury.
Post-Accident Findings
After the accident, the pitot system was examined and found to be partially blocked by the wing of an insect. The aircraft sustained damage to the cabin structure, fin and rudder, engine, and propeller.
Additional Information
The aircraft was a 1949 Luscombe Silvaire 8F, powered by a single Lycoming O-290-D2 piston engine. The pilot reported these issues to the AAIB, who conducted further enquiries.