AAIB Report: G-AWEF, Fatal accident near Headcorn Aerodrome, Kent

By Samantha Allen

Published: January 23, 2022 | 8:39 PM GMT

The aircraft, a Stampe SV4C(G) (G-AWEF) was taking part in a formation display practice with three other similar aircraft. Whilst practicing a new manoeuvre involving a synchronised line abreast stall turn, G-AWEF was seen to enter a spin. The aircraft did not fully recover from the spin before striking the ground fatally injuring the pilot.

No evidence was found of any pre-existing fault or damage to the aircraft which could have caused the spin or prevented the aircraft from recovering from the spin.

Flight tests conducted during the investigation showed that the most likely reason the aircraft entered a spin was that either too much aft stick was applied before the yawing turn was complete or that the rudder was not centralised when the pull-out was commenced. The investigation identified several reasons why this may have occurred.

The investigation highlighted the importance of obtaining guidance and mentoring from an experienced display authorisation evaluator when upgrading a display authorisation.

About Samantha Allen

Samantha Allen is a seasoned journalist and senior correspondent at TDPel Media, specializing in the intersection of maternal health, clinical wellness, and public policy. With a background in investigative reporting and a passion for data-driven storytelling, Samantha has become a trusted voice for expectant mothers and healthcare advocates worldwide. Her work focuses on translating complex medical research into actionable insights, covering everything from prenatal fitness and neonatal care to the socioeconomic impacts of healthcare legislation. At TDPel Media, Samantha leads the agency's health analytics desk, ensuring that every report is grounded in accuracy, empathy, and scientific integrity. When she isn't in the newsroom, she is an advocate for community-led wellness initiatives and an avid explorer of California’s coastal trails.