What happened
On 26 July 2008, a Stolp Acroduster Too SA750, registration G-BUGB, was involved in an accident near Farthing Corner Airfield in Kent. The pilot had flown from Rochester Airport to the airfield to meet acquaintances. After performing engine power checks on a grass runway, the aircraft climbed to an altitude of approximately 300–400 feet.
As the aircraft approached the hangar complex, it entered a rolling manoeuvre. Witnesses observed the aircraft performing what appeared to be an aileron roll to the right. However, once the aircraft became inverted, the roll rate slowed, and the movement transitioned into a nose-down barrel roll. The aircraft subsequently struck tall trees before impacting the ground in an orchard.
An intense fire broke out at the nose of the wreckage. Although bystanders and a doctor attempted to rescue the pilot, the individual remained trapped in the cockpit. The fire eventually spread, and the pilot sustained serious burns to 55% of his body. The aircraft was destroyed in the incident.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the flight sequence to determine the cause of the loss of control. The investigation established that the aircraft was within its permitted weight and centre of gravity limits. There were no identified technical failures or mechanical issues with the control systems; the aileron, rudder, and elevator linkages remained functional after impact.
The investigation also looked into the pilot's ability to extricate himself. It was discovered that while the primary five-point harness was secured, a secondary lap strap in the rear cockpit was undone. Rescuers were unaware of this second restraint, which may have contributed to the pilot being unable to exit the cockpit quickly. Additionally, the presence of loose items, such as flying gloves near the rudder cable, was noted, though they did not impede control.
Findings
- The accident was caused by the execution of a low-level rolling manoeuvre with insufficient altitude for recovery.
- The pilot had no documented history of performing low-level aerobatics prior to this flight.
- The transition from a controlled roll to a nose-down attitude suggested a potential loss of airspeed, disorientation, or distraction.
- The severity of the pilot's injuries was exacerbated by the fact that the fire was difficult to extinguish and the pilot was trapped by the seat harness.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the CAA and the Light Aircraft Association consider a requirement for a placard near cockpits to warn rescuers if more than one restraint harness is installed.