Europa, G-BWCV, 16 July 2006

From:
Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Published
10 December 2014
Category:
General aviation - fixed wing
Report type:
Bulletin - Field investigation
Date of occurrence:
16 July 2006
Aircraft type:
Europa
Location:
Near Portbury, North Somerset
Registration:
G-BWCV

Europa, G-BWCV

Summary:

Whilst cruising at 3,500 ft near the Severn Estuary, the aircraft suffered an alternator bearing seizure and smoke from the drive belt entered the cockpit. The engine stopped, but, due to its free-wheel mechanism, the propeller continued to rotate increasing the drag and causing a significantly higher rate of descent during the subsequent forced landing than for a propeller at idle or stopped. The aircraft landed in a small field, struck a hedge and suffered major damage to the composite fuselage structure fore and aft of the cockpit. Both occupants suffered minor injuries.

Download report:

Europa, G-BWCV 03-07.pdf (344.09 kb)

Published 10 December 2014