BFC Challenger II, G-BYKU, 22 July 2008

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: Sport aviation and balloons
• Report type: Bulletin - Field investigation
• Date of occurrence: 22 July 2008
• Aircraft type: BFC Challenger II
• Location: On approach to Runway 25 at Otherton Airfield, Staffordshire
• Registration: G-BYKU

BFC Challenger II, G-BYKU

Summary:

The propeller and hub assembly detached from the aircraft at a late stage on the approach. The pilot was able to continue with a glide approach and landed safely on the runway. The investigation established that thread locking compound had not been applied to the propeller hub mounting bolts, allowing them to vibrate loose. This resulted in fatigue cracks developing in the bolts, causing them to fail.

Download report:

BFC Challenger II, G-BYKU 11-09.pdf (609.93 kb)

Published 10 December 2014