What happened
On 6 August 1998, a Piper PA-28-181, registration G-NERI, was conducting a private solo VFR flight from Aberdeen to Bristol. The flight proceeded normally through several waypoints, including Newcastle and Daventry, until the pilot approached Bristol Airport. Upon reaching approximately 8 miles from the airfield, the pilot established contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC) and was assigned a position in the landing sequence for Runway 27.
While positioning for a right-hand base leg, the pilot performed standard downwind checks, which included activating the carburettor heat. As the aircraft turned onto the final approach, the engine power began to diminish. Despite attempts to rectify the situation by advancing and then retarding the throttle, the engine failed to maintain power. The pilot issued a 'Mayday' call to the tower, reporting an engine failure on final.
Unable to reach the runway, the aircraft impacted a field approximately 1 nautical mile east of the Runway 27 threshold, near the A38 road. The impact caused the wings to detach and resulted in severe distortion of the fuselage. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was subsequently treated at Bristol Royal Infirmary.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's engine, which showed no signs of seizure or external mechanical failure. During the recovery of the wreckage, a small amount of fuel was observed leaking from the left wing tank.
Analysis of the pilot's flight log revealed that the flight plan included various fuel tank changes throughout the journey. The log also lacked critical details such as intended cruising speed, forecast winds, or calculations for estimated ground speed and fuel requirements. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data, which indicated that while winds were generally manageable, the final segment of the flight involved a headwind component.
Findings
- The engine power decreased significantly during the final approach leg.
- The pilot attempted to manage the power loss by manipulating the throttle, but without success.
- The engine failure occurred during the final approach to the runway.