What happened
On 31 August 2013, a Piper J3C-65 Cub, registration G-BTET, was performing a private flight when the engine failed to maintain the required power during the final approach at Enstone Airfield, Oxfordshire. As the aircraft descended, the pilot noted that the engine was not responding to throttle inputs, causing the aircraft to drop below the intended approach path.
During this descent, the aircraft struck a signal post located just outside the airfield's perimeter fence. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest within the airfield boundary. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
The investigation
The investigation examined the engine's performance and the environmental conditions present during the flight. The pilot reported that the engine failed to respond to movements of the throttle. Evidence was gathered regarding the aircraft's history, noting that previous pilots of G-BTET had encountered similar instances of low power, which were previously linked to carburettor icing.
Findings
- The engine failed to develop the necessary power during the final approach phase.
- The weather conditions at the time of the accident were suitable for the formation of carburettor ice.
- The pilot experienced engine power loss during the later stages of the flight, consistent with the formation of ice in the carburettor.