What happened
On 25 May 2004, a Zenair CH 601UL, registration G-ZODI, was performing a private circuit practice flight at Popham Airfield in Hampshire. The pilot intended to execute a takeoff using a maximum climb angle technique at 60 knots. Following a pre-flight check and a period of waiting for oil temperatures to reach operational levels, the pilot taxied to the holding point of Runway 03.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot performed a full power check. The takeoff proceeded without incident, and the aircraft maintained 60 knots at full throttle during the initial climb. However, as the pilot initiated a gentle turn toward the crosswind leg, the engine experienced four misfires before losing power completely. The aircraft subsequently entered a left-hand spiral turn, impacting the ground in a field located just past the runway threshold. The impact caused substantial damage to the engine, the forward fuselage, and the right wing.
The investigation
The investigation was based on an accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination established that the pilot was wearing a four-point harness at the time of the impact. The pilot sustained serious injuries, including a cracked sternum, minor fractures, and lacerations to both ankles, but was able to exit the aircraft via the canopy with help from airfield personnel.
Findings
- The engine failed during the transition to the crosswind leg of the circuit.
- The pilot noted that the engine failure was potentially caused by an electrical fault or a failure within the fuel pump.
- The pilot's reaction to the resulting dive was noted as being slow.
- The structural integrity of the cockpit and the use of a four-point harness likely mitigated the severity of the pilot's injuries.