What happened
On 17 July 2010, a Pegasus Quantum 15-912, registration G-EMLY, was conducting a private cross-country flight from Old Sarum airfield to Shobdon Airfield. While cruising at 2,100 feet near Abergavenny, the pilot performed a standard LIFE check, during which engine temperatures and pressures appeared normal. Shortly after this check, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to use both the foot throttle and the hand throttle, but the engine failed to respond.
After checking the magnetos and choke position with no success, the pilot prepared for a forced landing. The surrounding terrain consisted of undulating fields, many of which contained livestock. The pilot identified a grass field without animals but noted that high-tension power lines on the western edge of the field prevented a southerly approach. To avoid the risk of undershooting the field, the pilot opted not to turn into the wind.
As the aircraft touched down in the first third of the field, the engine ceased running. During the deceleration phase, a crosswind from the right lifted the right wing. Despite attempts to lower the wing, the wind caused the aircraft to roll onto its left side, resulting in significant damage to the wing and minor damage to the trike structure. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was able to exit the aircraft before receiving help from a local farmer.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the aircraft at the manufacturer's repair facility. An inspection of the fuel system found no defects. While the engine operated normally during ground runs, investigators discovered that the wiring in one of the ignition boxes had experienced fatigue-related breakages, a known issue that had been previously repaired. This ignition box was replaced before a successful test flight.
Findings
- The engine failure occurred during a period when sufficient fuel should have been remaining in the tank.
- The cause of the engine failure could not be determined.
- The aircraft rolled onto its side due to the effects of a crosswind during the landing roll.