AAIB investigation to Mainair Blade, G-CCXR

Aircraft stalled while avoiding power lines at low level and fell into a river, Near Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire, 9 March 2017.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 August 2017

• Category: Sport aviation and balloons
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 9 March 2017
• Aircraft type: Mainair Blade
• Location: Near Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire
• Registration: G-CCXR

Summary:

During an evening flight, the pilot’s forward vison was restricted when he flew towards the low sun. He reduced power unintentionally and descended below 500 ft amsl before taking avoiding action when he unexpectedly saw a power line in front of him. He believes the evasive manoeuvre caused the wing to stall and the aircraft then fell out of control into the river below. The pilot remained conscious and extricated himself from the aircraft before swimming ashore.

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Mainair Blade, G-CCXR 08-17

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Published 10 August 2017