What happened
On 8 August 2009, a Pegasus Flash, registration G-MNKX, was performing a private flight from North Moor Airfield in South Humbersili. Following a series of successful morning flights, the pilot prepared the aircraft for a subsequent departure from Runway 27. During the takeoff roll, the engine initially responded to full power, and the aircraft began to accelerate. However, upon reaching an altitude of approximately 150 ft agl, the engine ceased operation abruptly.
The pilot maintained the aircraft's track along the runway centerline, intending to either land on the remaining runway or touchdown in a field beyond a perpendicular dyke. To facilitate a glide, the pilot trimmed the aircraft for maximum distance; however, the aircraft encountered an area of sink, causing a rapid descent. The aircraft landed back on the runway with only 25 metres of runway length remaining. Due to the lack of stopping distance, the aircraft overran the end of the runway and entered a dyke. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained damage to its wing and the trike unit.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the engine failure and the conditions prior to departure. It was noted that the aircraft had been parked in a sunny location with ambient temperatures of approximately 20°C. The fuel tank, which was constructed of black-painted metal, had been filled with MOGAS.
Following the recovery of the aircraft, the owner conducted a thorough inspection of the engine and fuel system. This examination, which included an engine test run using the residual fuel from the accident, revealed no mechanical defects that would account for the sudden loss of power.