What happened
On 29 February 2004, a Piper PA-25-215 Pawnee, registration G-ASKV, was performing an aero-tow operation from Parham Airfield in West Sussex. The aircraft was towing an ASK13 glider containing a student and an instructor. Following a normal takeoff, the aircraft began a standard left turn at approximately 200 feet. However, the glider crew observed the aircraft level its wings and deviate from the expected track, eventually entering a gentle right-hand turn and descent while the engine remained at full power.
Noting the lack of any emergency signals from the tug, the glider instructor took control of the glider, released the tow cable, and successfully returned to the airfield. Meanwhile, the Piper PA-25-235 Pawnee continued its descent, passing over a line of trees and a golf course fairway before striking more trees. The impact caused the aircraft to become inverted. Although the cockpit remained relatively intact, a severe fire broke out in the engine bay and spread rapidly through the fuselage.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the flight. Witnesses at the scene reported that the engine was running at high power throughout the descent and that the aircraft appeared to go out of control shortly after takeoff. Bystanders attempted to rescue the pilot by opening the cockpit hatch and unfastening his harness, but they were forced to retreat due to intense flames and small explosions caused by the fire.
An engineering examination of the G-ASKV revealed that the propeller had shattered upon impact, consistent with high power settings. The structural integrity of the cockpit was found to be remarkably high, suggesting that the impact itself was likely survivable. Pathological evidence showed no signs of smoke inhalation, leading investigators to conclude that the pilot had died in flight.
Findings
- The pilot experienced sudden incapacitation due to heart failure during the initial climb.
- The pilot died in flight, prior to the aircraft impacting the trees and the subsequent fire.
- The glider crew successfully managed the emergency by executing an early release from the tow.
- The aircraft's design, intended for agricultural use, helped maintain the cockpit's structural integrity during the crash.