What happened
On 17 July 2008, a Piper PA-15 Vagabond, registration G-BTOT, was conducting a general handling flight in the local area after departing from Fishburn Airfield. During the second takeoff attempt, while climbing through approximately 1,000 feet, the engine began to run roughly. The pilot attempted to rectify the issue by applying carburettor heat, but the engine subsequently stopped.
Following the engine failure, the pilot attempted to reach a nearby farm strip. However, the engine cut out completely before the aircraft could reach the strip, necessitating a forced landing in a grass field. The aircraft experienced a heavy touchdown, which resulted in minor damage to the airframe and the landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The inquiry examined the engine performance and the environmental conditions present during the flight. The pilot noted that the weather conditions at the time were highly susceptible to the formation of ice within the carburettor.
Findings
- The engine failure was caused by suspected carburettor icing.
- The pilot's attempt to use carburettor heat was unsuccessful in preventing the stoppage.
- The forced landing occurred in a grass field after the engine ceased functioning entirely during the approach to a farm strip.