What happened
On May 12, 2015, at approximately 10:30 local time, a Flight Design CTLS, registration F-JVTE, was performing a visual flight rules (VFR) landing at Bex Aerodrome (LSGB). During the approach, the pilot encountered a mechanical issue while attempting to switch fuel sources. Specifically, the pilot was unable to successfully select the left fuel tank, which subsequently caused the engine to stop running.
Facing an engine failure on final approach to runway 33, the pilot attempted an emergency landing. Due to the loss of power, the aircraft could not decelerate sufficiently to stop on the runway surface. To avoid overrunning the end of the runway, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft to the left, causing it to exit the paved surface and come to rest in a field bordering the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the engine shutdown and the subsequent loss of control during the landing phase. Investigators examined the fuel system functionality and the pilot's actions regarding the fuel selector valve. The investigation confirmed that the engine failure was directly linked to the inability to transition fuel supply to the left tank.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was the inability to select the left fuel tank, which led to a total loss of engine power.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the left main landing gear during the excursion.
- The pilot was uninjured during the incident, though one passenger was present on board and remained unharmed.
- The aircraft exited the runway into an adjacent field as a result of the emergency maneuver to avoid a runway overrun.