What happened
On 13 November 1999, a Pierre Robin HR200/120B, registration G-BWVG, was conducting a circuit training flight near Caernarfon Airport, Wales. During the right base leg for Runway 02, a low fuel pressure warning light illuminated. The instructor took control of the aircraft and attempted to return to the airport, but the engine lost all power approximately five to ten seconds later.
After establishing a glide at 75 kt, the instructor identified a suitable field for a forced landing. The aircraft touched down roughly one-quarter of the way into a 200-metre field. During the landing roll on the wet grass, the student pilot applied the brake pedals simultaneously with the instructor. This caused the main landing gear wheels to lock up. The aircraft then encountered a downslope and was unable to stop before striking a substantial, hedge-covered bank that obscured a farm track. Both occupants sustained one minor injury and escaped the wreckage without serious harm.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the cause of the engine power loss and the subsequent landing dynamics. Upon arrival at the scene, emergency services found the fuel cut-off lever in the cockpit had been moved to the 'OFF' position.
Subsequent examination of the engine and fuel system revealed that the airframe-side fuel system functioned normally. The fuel itself was tested and found to be uncontaminated, and a later strip inspection of the engine revealed no mechanical defects.
Investigators noted that the fuel cut-off lever on this aircraft type is located between the seats, adjacent to the pitch trim wheel. The lever is painted black rather than the standard red for fuel controls, and its position in the 'OFF' state is not visually obvious to the pilot. While the operator had installed a frangible locking wire to prevent movement, the investigation found that the lever could still move upward by about 1/4 inch, which is sufficient to cut off fuel flow. It was suggested that the lever may have been accidentally disturbed during downwind checks or while adjusting the trim wheel.
Findings
- The engine lost power because the fuel cut-off lever was inadvertently moved to the 'OFF' position.
- The lever's black colour and proximity to the trim wheel contributed to the risk of accidental operation.
- The locking wire installed by the operator was insufficient to prevent the small amount of movement required to cut the fuel.
- The aircraft's excursion into the hedge was exacerbated by the simultaneous application of brakes by both the instructor and the student.