AAIB investigation to Piper PA-28-180 Cherokee, G-BAJR
Forced landing due partial engine failure, Whitesands Beach, Pembrokeshire, 4 September 2018.
Summary:
Shortly after reaching cruising level, the pilot noticed a vibration and the engine began to run roughly. Selecting full throttle and carburettor heat did not resolve the loss of power and the aircraft was unable to maintain level flight. The pilot then focussed on making a forced landing. His intention was to land on a beach, but due to the presence of people, the pilot instead landed along the water’s edge. The aircraft landed in shallow water on its main landing gear, but the nose gear broke off when it contacted the water. The pilot was uninjured and able to vacate the aircraft unaided. A subsequent examination of the engine did not conclusively determine the cause of the failure.
Download report: