Spilsby plane crash which killed Boston pilot was due to engine issues, report reveals

Simon Barrett died when his single seat plane, a Colibri MB2, crashed at Mavis Enderby near Spilsby last September.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has recently completed its investigation into the crash which claimed the life of the 55-year-old pilot.

It concluded that: “The aircraft suffered a partial engine failure shortly after taking off. The evidence suggests that the pilot flew a circuit to the north of the airfield attempting to return to the runway but struck the ground just to the north of the runway.

“The investigation found the engine was in poor condition with several defects which could explain the loss of engine power.”

The report stated that Mr Barrett was planning a short flight to test modifications to the plane’s fuel systems.

Mr Barrett took off from the small farm airstrip near Mavis Enderby where he kept his plane.

The owner of G-BUDW kept his aircraft at a small farm airstrip near Mavis Enderby in Lincolnshire. The wreckage of the aircraft was found approximately 50m to the north of the grass runway at the strip.

Investigators believe he was attempting to return and land in the airfield at the time.

Mr Barrett, who had been flying for around 30 years, was described as a loving husband and father at the time of the incident.

A statement from his family said: "Flying was Simon's number one hobby and he took every opportunity to take to the calm and peace of the sky whenever the weather permitted.”

“He had been flying for around 30 years as well as enjoying DIY at home.

“Simon was a family man, a devoted, supportive and loving husband and Dad.

“We would like to thank everyone for their understanding and support at this very difficult time.”