AAIB investigation to Aeroprakt A32 Vixxen, G-ENVV
Lost control whilst flying a steep turn at low altitude, Newtownards Airfield, County Down, 19 July 2022.
Summary:
On the evening of 19 July 2022, two pilots were flying circuits around Newtownards Airport in G-ENVV an Aeroprakt Vixxen. After approximately 20 mins of circuits they flew a low pass parallel to Runway 03 followed by a steep right turn passing over several people on the ground. Recorded data showed the aircraft passed over the people with 70° angle of bank at 72 ft above the ground. During this turn the aircraft was seen to descend and hit the ground.
The investigation could not determine exactly why the aircraft descended in the turn but no defects could be found with the aircraft or engine. There was evidence that the aircraft’s electronic displays lost power before the accident and this could have caused a distraction. However, it was being flown in a manner that exposed the aircraft, the occupants and the people on the ground to a high risk of an accident.
The investigation identified several shortcomings in the build process and the registration of the ballistic parachute recovery system, which did not contribute to the outcome. The LAA and CAA have taken action to address these.
During an inspection carried out immediately before the accident the CAA identified shortcomings in the aerodrome’s safety management system, which the CAA stated have now been addressed.
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