AAIB investigation to Rans S6-ES Coyote II, G-TIVS
Engine failure (suspected Carb Ice) misjudged the forced Landing, Corfe, Somerset, 13 April 2015.
Summary:
The pilot was flying from Tracy Island, Chard to Dunkeswell at approximately 1,800 ft amsl. Approaching Corfe the weather conditions deteriorated, with visible moisture and cloud ahead. The pilot reduced power to descend below the cloud and shortly afterwards the engine failed. He reported that he turned the aircraft directly towards the only field he considered suitable for a forced landing; he then realised, late on the approach, that he was now too high to reach this field. He turned the aircraft steeply to lose height and avoid obstacles but lost more height than he anticipated. He considered that the aircraft was now too low. He levelled the wings but was unable to prevent the aircraft landing heavily on its nose in an unsuitable field. The nose wheel collapsed and the aircraft suffered substantial damage. The pilot and his passenger were uninjured and vacated the aircraft normally.
The pilot thought the cause of the engine failure was carburettor icing, following which he misjudged the forced landing and did not reach the only suitable field.
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