Piper PA-25-235 Pawnee, G-BDWL, 1 February 2004

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Field investigation
• Date of occurrence: 1 February 2004
• Aircraft type: Piper PA-25-235 Pawnee
• Location: Crowland Airfield, Lincolnshire
• Registration: G-BDWL

Piper PA-25-235 Pawnee, G-BDWL

Summary:

The Pawnee carried out a normal takeoff towing a glider. At approximately 500 feet it inexplicably turned to the right and entered a descent. The glider released from the tow and was able to land normally back on the airfield. The aircraft however, continued its descent striking the ground banked 35º to the right in a 45º nose down attitude. It is probable that the pilot became medically incapacitated in flight before being fatally injured in the impact. One medical related safety recommendation has been made.

Download report:

G-BDWL-3-05.pdf (103.57 kb)

Published 10 December 2014