Pitts S-2A, G-PTTS, 14 May 2007

From:
Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Published
10 December 2014
Category:
General aviation - fixed wing
Report type:
Bulletin - Field investigation
Date of occurrence:
14 May 2007
Aircraft type:
Pitts S-2A
Location:
Leicester Airport, Leicestershire
Registration:
G-PTTS

Pitts S-2A, G-PTTS

Summary:

Shortly after taking off from Leicester Airport, all thrust was lost from the propeller. A forced landing was made on to the disused section of the runway, where the aircraft sustained some damage. After coming to a halt the engine continued to run, but at idle speed. It was established that a failure had occurred in the propeller control unit, leading to a loss of controlling oil pressure to the propeller hub. This resulted in the propeller blades moving to the coarse pitch angle stops. The pilot was unaware of this characteristic of the propeller, as this had not been covered in his training. Also, no reference to this was in the aircraft’s Flight Manual. One safety recommendation is made.

Download report:

Pitts S-2A, G-PTTS 09-07.pdf (249.11 kb)

Published 10 December 2014