What happened
On 15 April 2012, a Rans S6-116 Coyote II, registration G-BWWP, was involved in an accident at Old Park Farm, near Port Talbot, during a private flight. The sequence of events began while the pilot was warming up the engine; during this period, the left wing dropped, causing the aircraft to strike an up-hedge. Following this contact, the pilot performed all necessary pre-takeoff checks and proceeded to take off normally.
During the climb phase, the engine began to vibrate and run roughly, which subsequently led to a loss of airspeed. In an attempt to maintain sufficient speed, the pilot lowered the aircraft's nose. As the aircraft approached the ground, the pilot performed a flare, resulting in the aircraft making contact with the ground.
There were no injuries to the pilot or the single passenger on board. However, the aircraft sustained significant damage to the engine, propeller, airframe, and gear legs.
The investigation
The investigation examined the mechanical performance of the Rotax 912 piston engine and the flight profile of the aircraft. Investigators looked into the circumstances surrounding the engine's irregular operation and the subsequent loss of power. While the investigation considered the possibility of carburettor icing, the specific reason for the engine's malfunction could not be determined.