What happened
During the third quarter of 2022, several notable aviation occurrences were investigated by the Dutch Safety Board. In the realm of general aviation, a Spitfire Mk 26B (registration PH-PSF) experienced a significant engine failure during a go-around at Hilversum Airfield. Following an issue with the landing gear retraction, the engine began emitting blue smoke and eventually ceased functioning, forcing the pilot to perform an emergency landing in a cornfield. No injuries were reported, though the aircraft sustained heavy damage.
In the glider sector, an Alexander Schleicher ASK 13 experienced a detached control stick during a winch launch at Nistelrode glider airfield, though the instructor managed to stabilize the flight. Additionally, a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 3T glider crashed into trees after the flap control lever unintentionally moved from the landing position, causing a rapid loss of altitude.
Unmanned aircraft activity also posed risks during a hot-air balloon event in Hardenberg, where unidentified drones flew in close proximity to a balloon, at one point passing within two meters of the basket. In the commercial sector, a Boeing 737-800 en route from Greece to Amsterdam experienced sluggish flight control responses, prompting a precautionary diversion to Athens.
The investigation
The Dutch Safety Board examined various mechanical failures, pilot maneuvers, and environmental factors. Investigations into the Spitfire Mk 26B focused on the engine's internal failure, which revealed a shattered piston rod. For the airprox incidents near Teuge and Kempen airports, the Board analyzed the flight paths and separation distances between VFR aircraft. The investigation into the drone incursions at the balloon event evaluated the impact of unauthorized UAS presence in Class G airspace during a large-scale public event.
Findings
- A primary cause of the Spitfire Mk 26B incident was a mechanical failure within the engine, specifically the disintegration of a piston rod.
- The Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 3T accident was caused by the unintentional movement of the flap control lever during final approach.
- The drone incursions at the Hardenberg event highlighted the difficulty of managing unauthorized UAS in proximity to manned aircraft during organized aviation events.