What happened
On 18 August 2012, a Piel CP301A Emeraude, registration G-AYEC, was prepared for a private flight from RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire. Following a previous incident in May 201s involving a propeller strike, the aircraft had undergone repairs and a detailed engine inspection. After receiving a Permit Flight Release Certificate, the pilot commenced pre-flight procedures.
Shortly after takeoff, the engine ceased running. The pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a nearby crop field. The impact caused the aircraft to invert, resulting in significant damage to the engine, propeller, cockpit, and a cracked main wing spar. The pilot, who was wearing a four-point harness, managed to exit the wreckage through the passenger door and sustained only minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the engine failure. It was established that during the pre-flight inspection, the pilot became distracted by administrative matters involving station personnel. This distraction led to a failure to verify the fuel level. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot had not flown the aircraft for over three months, meaning they were not in current flying practice.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was fuel exhaustion.
- The pilot failed to check the fuel state during the pre-flight inspection due to distractions.
- A secondary distraction occurred after engine start when the pilot had to shut down the engine to discuss a security pass with station personnel.
- The pilot had not operated the aircraft for more than three months prior to the accident.