This statement provides an update on the ongoing AAIB investigation into an accident involving Hawker Sea Fury T Mk 20, G-RNHF, 0.5 nm from Runway 04, RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset on 28 April 2021.
The aircraft was being positioned for a landing on Runway 04 at RNAS Yeovilton following a low engine oil pressure indication. As the aircraft began the base turn, the engine seized suddenly and the pilot was unable to feather the propeller. Due to the extremely high rate of descent required to maintain speed it was not possible to reach the runway. The aircraft struck the ground approximately 0.5 nm from the runway threshold. The aircraft was destroyed but both occupants were able to extract themselves from the cockpit.
The investigation has identified that the engine’s rear crankpin bearing had overheated, leading to extensive damage within the rear crankcase and causing the engine to seize. Due to the severe damage to the engine, the cause of the rear crankpin bearing becoming overheated was not established. The final report into the accident is expected to be published in June 2022.