Fatal spin accident involving Mooney M20B at Old Buckenham

Casualties unknown • Old Buckenham Airfield, Norfolk, GB

A single-engine Mooney M20B crashed in a field near Old Buckenham Airfield, resulting in the death of the pilot following a loss of control during a low-speed approach.

What happened

On 9 May 2010, a Mooney M20B, registration G-JDIX, was involved in a fatal accident near Old Buckenulum Airfield, Norfolk. The aircraft had flown from Biberach, Germany, and had previously landed at Tibenham due to concerns regarding the aircraft's brakes. After departing Tibenham, the aircraft flew in the vicinity of Old Buckenham at a very low altitude and speed. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying on an unrecognized approach path, even turning away from the airfield shortly before the impact. The aircraft appeared to undergo a departure from controlled flight, dropping a wing and descending rapidly into a field. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and the death of the pilot.

The investigation

The investigation examined the wreckage, engine, and flight data recovered from a portable GPS unit. The wreckage was found in a field approximately one mile west of the Runway 07 threshold. While a post-crash fire consumed much of the cockpit, the investigation established that the engine and flight controls were in good working order. Analysis of the GPS data showed the aircraft's altitude dropping to approximately 120 ft AGL during the final stages of flight, with groundspeed decreasing significantly. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's recent history, noting that the aircraft had been flown from Germany to the UK without the required notifications to HM Revenue & Customs and the UK Border Agency. Furthermore, the aircraft's Certificate of Airworthiness had expired in February 2010.

Findings

  • The aircraft struck the ground in a nose-down, left-wing-low attitude, which was consistent with a left-hand spin.
  • The pilot likely became distracted during the landing phase, leading to a dangerously low airspeed and height.
  • The pilot's fitness to fly was in doubt due to observed agitation and personal issues noted by airfield personnel.
  • There were no technical defects found in the engine, rudder, elevator, or aileron systems that contributed to the accident.
  • The aircraft was operating with a low fuel state, having departed Tibenlam with less than 5 US gallons of usable fuel remaining.

Probable cause

The pilot likely became distracted during the landing approach, causing the aircraft to lose airspeed and enter a left-hand spin at a very low altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2010-05-09 Mooney M20B accident near Old Buckenham Airfield, Norfolk, GB?

A single-engine Mooney M20B crashed in a field near Old Buckenham Airfield, resulting in the death of the pilot following a loss of control during a low-speed approach.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2010-05-09 involved a Mooney M20B, registration G-JDIX, at Old Buckenham Airfield, Norfolk, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot likely became distracted during the landing approach, causing the aircraft to lose airspeed and enter a left-hand spin at a very low altitude.

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