AAIB investigation to Druine D.31 Turbulent, G-ARNZ

When approaching the airfield to rejoin the circuit, the aircraft’s engine began to run rough then lost power completely. During the subsequent forced landing the aircraft came to rest inverted and the pilot sustained minor injuries. A post-accident inspection of the engine revealed a crack on the plastic rocker arm in the fuel pump. After the accident, the LAA issued an Airworthiness Information Leaflet which requires plastic rocker arms to be replaced with metal rocker arms in affected aircraft. Loss of engine power resulting in a forced landing, Damyns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster, 18 October 2020.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 12 August 2021

• Category: General aviation - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 18 October 2020
• Aircraft type: Druine D.31 Turbulent
• Location: Damyns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster
• Registration: G-ARNZ

Summary:

When approaching the airfield to rejoin the circuit, the aircraft’s engine began to run rough then lost power completely. During the subsequent forced landing the aircraft came to rest inverted and the pilot sustained minor injuries. A post-accident inspection of the engine revealed a crack on the plastic rocker arm in the fuel pump. After the accident, the LAA issued an Airworthiness Information Leaflet which requires plastic rocker arms to be replaced with metal rocker arms in affected aircraft.

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Druine D.31 Turbulent, G-ARNZ

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Published 12 August 2021