AAIB investigation to Pioneer 300 Hawk, G-OPYO
Pioneer 300 Hawk (G-OPYO), forced landing due to engine failure, near Sleap Aerodrome, Shropshire, 25 November 2021.
Summary:
During the pre-flight inspection, the pilot estimated from the fuel gauges that he had enough fuel for just under an hour of flying in his left tank and fuel for about 30 minutes of flying in the right tank. As he intended to practice circuits and go-arounds he believed he had sufficient fuel in either tank, but would select the left tank to ensure there was sufficient margin to undertake his planned flight.
After takeoff he completed his first circuit and a touch-and-go landing. Whilst on his second circuit, he descended on the base leg and had started to turn onto final when the engine vibrated, slowed and stopped within a few seconds. He called a Mayday, raised the undercarriage and flaps, and lined up for Runway 36. He attempted two engine restarts but although the engine turned, it would not re-start. He did not notice the fuel pressure or fuel tank contents readings.
Realising he was not going to reach his intended landing point, he attempted to land in a nearby field. On touch down, the aircraft traversed a ditch, and hit the far bank hard before coming to a stop. The pilot experienced some back pain but was able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
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