Accident Overview
On 18 May 2013, at approximately 1450 UTC, a Piper PA-18-150 (Modified) Super Cub, registration G-AWMF, was involved in an accident at Wycombe Air Park, Buckinghamshire. The aircraft was manufactured in 1968 (serial number 18-8674) and powered by a single Lycoming O-360-A3A piston engine. The flight was a private glider towing operation with only the pilot on board. The pilot held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and was 19 years old, with 257 hours total flying experience, including 109 hours on type.
Sequence of Events
Prior to the accident, the aircraft had completed ten consecutive glider tows before refuelling. The accident occurred on the third takeoff after refuelling. Pre-takeoff checks, including engine full-power checks, were reported as normal. Shortly after takeoff, at a height of about 50 ft, a sudden vibration began, which was severe enough to prevent the pilot from reading his instruments. The vibration then stopped, accompanied by a complete loss of engine power.
Forced Landing and Outcome
The pilot jettisoned the glider and manoeuvred the aircraft for a forced landing in fields beyond the airfield boundary. During the landing, the aircraft ran into a hedge and pitched nose-down, flipping onto its back and coming to rest inverted. The pilot, who was wearing a full harness, was uninjured and was able to vacate the aircraft through its door.
Damage and Investigation
The accident resulted in extensive airframe damage and local soil contamination with fuel. At the time of the report, the reason for the engine failure was not yet determined.