Air Accidents Investigation Branch
February 9
09:59
2023
Summary:
During the flight the aircraft developed severe vibration requiring the pilot to return to the airfield where fatigue cracks were found in the propeller and its two mounting blocks. The cracks originated from fretting between the propeller assembly and splines on the engine hub.
The aircrafts Type Responsibility Agreement holder, CAA and LAA are taking combined safety action to promulgate enhanced guidance for continued airworthiness of Fairey Reed propellers. This action is in addition to existing inspection and maintenance requirements to owners of aircraft using this propeller type.