What happened
On 24 May 1998, a Piper PA-22-160, registration G-ARHU, was conducting a private flight from Breighton, near Selby, Yorkshire. The flight began under calm weather conditions with high visibility. Following takeoff from Runway 29, the pilot executed a teardrop turn intended to reposition the aircraft for a landing on Runway 11.
During the final approach to the runway, the aircraft struck power cables. The impact caused the aircraft to crash, resulting in the airframe being damaged beyond economic repair. The pilot sustained serious injuries during the accident.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the collision and the structural integrity of the cabin. It was noted that the airfield's flight guide contains a specific warning regarding the presence of power cables on the western approach to the site.
Regarding the injuries sustained, the investigation found that while the pilot was secured by a lap-strap connected to the airframe and shoulder straps connected to the seat, the seat itself became detached from the aircraft's structure upon impact. This detachment contributed to the severity of the pilot's injuries. Due to memory loss resulting from the crash, the pilot was unable to provide further specific details regarding the sequence of events.