What happened
On 3 November 2006, a Pegasus Quantum 15, registration G-MZLH, was conducting a private flight near Blakeney, Forest of Dean, under clear visibility and light north-westerly winds. Approximately 35 minutes after takeoff, while cruising at 1,100 ft amsl, the pilot initiated a 90-degree left turn to avoid a village. Immediately following this maneuver, the aircraft experienced intense vibrations, and the engine ceased operation.
The passenger reported that their helmet had become displaced and struck the propeller. Following unsuccessful attempts to restart the engine, the pilot performed a forced landing into a grass field, landing into the wind. Upon touchdown, the aircraft's right landing gear caught in a soft furrow in the ground, causing the aircraft to ground loop. The nose wheel and right wing subsequently struck the ground, causing significant damage to the fuselage, right wing, and landing gear. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries and were transported to the hospital via air ambulance.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and the site of the accident. They recovered a propeller blade from an adjacent field, which showed evidence of an impact mark near the outboard end of its leading edge, suggesting the blade had detached from the hub at its root.
Regarding the passenger's helmet, the investigation found that one of the chinstrap securing pins was missing. It could not be definitively determined if this missing pin caused the helmet to detach during flight or if the pin was lost during the impact of the landing. The investigation also noted that the landing field contained deep furrows from heavy agricultural machinery running perpendicular to the aircraft's landing path.
Findings
- The engine stopped because a propeller blade detached from the hub.
- The passenger's helmet became displaced, potentially striking the propeller.
- The right landing gear caught in a deep furrow in the soft ground, triggering the ground loop.
- The position of the propeller on many microlights makes them susceptible to damage from loose objects in the cockpit area.