What happened
On 2 August 1999, a Reims Cessna F152, registration G-BXYU, was conducting a private training flight from Eggesford Airfield to Exeter Airport. As part of a PPL renewal programme, the crew decided to perform a practice forced landing followed by a touch-and-go at a private landing strip located at Beacon View Farm, Drewsteatington, Devon.
The initial touchdown on the 324-yard westerly runway was reported as normal. During the touch-and-go, the flaps were retracted from 30° to 20°. However, shortly after the aircraft became airborne again, the instructor noted that the aircraft was failing to achieve a standard climb rate. Despite the engine appearing to be at full power and the airspeed being correct, the aircraft would not climb. To avoid nearby power cables, farm buildings, and rising terrain, the instructor closed the throttle and attempted to land straight ahead.
The aircraft experienced a heavy touchdown, causing the nose landing gear to collapse. The aircraft subsequently nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position with the tail embedded in a hedge. Both crew members, who were wearing lap and shoulder harnesses, escaped through the side doors without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the engine performance and environmental conditions during the flight. The instructor confirmed that the carburettor heat had been applied during the descent for the practice forced landing and that the engine had been warmed while descending through 1,000 feet. However, the carburettor heat had been returned to the cold position just before the touch-and-go maneuver.
Analysis of the ambient conditions—specifically a temperature of +25°C and a dew point of +14°C—showed a significant risk of carburettor icing when using descent power. Additionally, local pilots suggested that terrain-induced downdraughts might have impacted the aircraft's performance.
Findings
- The aircraft failed to maintain a normal climb rate following the touch-and-go.
- The engine was producing full power, but the climb was hindered by environmental and mechanical factors.
- A combination of potential downdraughts from local terrain and the risk of carburettor icing likely contributed to the poor climb performance.