AAIB investigation to Rutan Long-Ez (Modified), G-BPWP
Unsuccessful forced landing following engine failure, Dunkeswell Airfield, Devon, 7 July 2018.
Summary:
The pilot was operating his aircraft with a mixture of automotive gasoline (Mogas) and aviation gasoline (Avgas) 100LL in the left fuel tank and Avgas 100LL in the right fuel tank. While on base leg to land on Runway 04 at Dunkeswell Airfield the engine, which was being supplied with fuel from the left fuel tank, suddenly stopped. The pilot established a glide to land in a field in the undershoot, but at a late stage in the approach he spotted a fence running across his chosen landing site. Whilst manoeuvring to avoid the fence the aircraft touched down firmly, seriously injuring the pilot; the passenger sustained minor injuries.
The likely cause of the engine stopping was either carburettor icing or a vapour lock in the aircraft fuel supply to the engine.
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