What happened
On 10 October 2009, a Reims Cessna F152, registration G-BLWV, was conducting a solo training flight near Hawley Lakes, Hampshire. The student pilot, who had recently completed dual instruction, was performing a series of solo circuits. During the downwind leg of the second circuit, the aircraft's engine experienced a rapid loss of power. The pilot attempted to restore engine performance by adjusting the throttle, mixture, carburettor heat, magnetos, and master switch, but only achieved a brief, unsuccessful resurgence in power.
After declaring a MAYDAY to Air Traffic Control, the pilot sought a suitable landing site. While considering a return to the airfield, the pilot decided against it to avoid the risk of stalling or spinning during low-level turns. Instead, the pilot targeted an area of open heathland. However, the aircraft approached the chosen site with excessive speed and altitude. In an attempt to reach a second patch of open ground, the aircraft entered a gap between trees, resulting in a collision that brought the aircraft to a sudden stop.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sudden loss of engine power and the subsequent flight path of the aircraft. The pilot's actions following the engine failure were examined, including the decision-making process regarding the landing site and the management of the aircraft's energy. The investigation also noted the physical state of the aircraft following the impact with the trees.
Findings
- The pilot sustained minor injuries and was able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
- The Reims Cessna F152 sustained damage beyond economic repair.
- The pilot's decision to avoid low-level turns, based on prior instructor training, likely contributed to the survival of the crew.
- The primary cause of the accident was the sudden loss of engine power which necessitated the forced landing.
- The aircraft overshot the intended landing area due to being too high and too fast.