What happened
On 8 August 2007, a Piper PA-24-260 aircraft, registration G-ATIA, departed Leicester Airport for a private flight. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed a low voltage warning light and decided to return to the airfield. During the approach to Runway 33, the pilot observed vehicles near the runway threshold and performed a long landing, which resulted in a bounced touchdown and an aborted landing.
During the subsequent climb-out, the engine began to run roughly, accompanied by loud popping noises. The pilot attempted to turn back toward the airfield to land on Runway 10. However, at a low altitude, the engine lost power. The aircraft entered a rapid nose-down attitude and rolled to the right, eventually stalling and impacting the ground in a wheat field approximately half a mile east of Leicester Airport. The impact triggered a fire in the engine compartment. The pilot sustained one serious injury to the back and face.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the engine, a Lycoming IO-540-D4A5. While the engine internals and magnetos were found to be in good condition, the investigation focused on the fuel system. A fuel hose had separated from the fuel injector, and the threads on the injector fitting were found to be stripped. Although it could not be determined if this separation occurred due to impact forces or a pre-existing loose fitting, the loss of fuel delivery was a significant factor.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision-making. Analysis of the flight path indicated that the aircraft was attempting a turn back to the departure runway at an altitude that was likely insufficient to complete the maneuver safely following the power loss.
Findings
- The engine power loss could not be definitively attributed to a specific mechanical failure, though a fuel leak from the injector fitting was a primary consideration.
- The pilot attempted to return to the departure runway at a low altitude following a partial engine failure.
- The aircraft stalled due to the combination of low airspeed and a high rate of descent during the turn.
- The post-impact fire was likely fueled by fuel from the electric pump, which remained in the 'on' position.