Another Spitfire Down
Discussion
It appears that 'Elizabeth', the two seater, had a wheels up landing this afternoon.
Under carriage wasn't locked properly & collapsed on landing.
Photos show prop damage, I imagine under carriage damaged as well, however reports say damage is not serious.
Pilot & passenger walked away unhurt.
Under carriage wasn't locked properly & collapsed on landing.
Photos show prop damage, I imagine under carriage damaged as well, however reports say damage is not serious.
Pilot & passenger walked away unhurt.
Thanks for the additional information. Looking up details of NH431 shows that it only returned to flight in March 2017, so a newcomer to the warbird scene.
Unlike most two seaters, NH431 was never converted to a two set configuration during its operational life. It only became a two seater during its recent restoration to flying condition.
Let's hope the damage isn't too bad and she is back in the air soon.
Unlike most two seaters, NH431 was never converted to a two set configuration during its operational life. It only became a two seater during its recent restoration to flying condition.
Let's hope the damage isn't too bad and she is back in the air soon.
Eric Mc said:
I don't think that an engine rebuild is something that MUST be done after a forced landing. It will certainly be checked of course.
That's interesting thanks. I thought that checking an engine for potential shock loading was such a big job that you might as well rebuild it. I wouldn't know to be honest. If the prop was rotating at the time of impact then it would be pretty certain that the engine was shock loaded (like the Griffon engined XIX incident a few days ago).
If the engine and prop had been stationary when the aircraft struck the ground, I would expect the damage to the engine itself would be a lot less severe. Certainly the engine mounting on which the engine rests would need to be checked for cracks and damage to the engine carrying points.
If the engine and prop had been stationary when the aircraft struck the ground, I would expect the damage to the engine itself would be a lot less severe. Certainly the engine mounting on which the engine rests would need to be checked for cracks and damage to the engine carrying points.
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