A Spitfire was forced to land after its engine lost power in mid-air, a report has found. The Spitfire IXT, made in 1943, contained a 49-year-old pilot and passenger. It sustained damage to its propeller, lower front engine cowling, right radiator and right wing skin after coming to a halt near Hythe in Kent. An Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) report read: “The aircraft had been flying for about 35 minutes when the pilot noticed a slight engine vibration. This was rapidly followed by a power loss. The pilot noted a distinct smell of fuel in the cockpit and suspected a fuel problem.

“He briefed his passenger and established a stable glide descent to carry out a wheels-up forced landing in a field. The aircraft landed on its underside and came to a stop.” It added that the passenger suffered minor injuries, but the pilot was unhurt.

The power loss was caused by the failure of a gasket, fitted within the pressure switch. (Image: AAIB)

Investigators concluded that the power loss was caused by the failure, probably age-related, of a gasket fitted within the pressure switch for the fuel low-pressure warning light attached to the carburettor.

The document added: “This allowed pressurised fuel to spray into the lower rear part of the engine bay, above and into, the air filter box.

“The fuel was then drawn into the air flow affecting the fuel air mixture, so the engine was running extremely rich.

“This resulted in the engine vibration and subsequent power loss.”

The pilot briefed his passenger, who “remained calm throughout”, the AAIB noted.

The Spitfire IXT was made in 1943. (Image: Getty)

The flyer, who had 7,368 hours of experience, was in radio contact with another Spitfire pilot who relayed a MAYDAY to Biggin Hill ATC on his behalf.

Officials added: “He then concentrated on maintaining airspeed and energy throughout the descent but was able to establish the low fuel pressure warning light had illuminated so selected the boost pump on.

“He also checked the magneto switches but neither action made any difference.

“He decided not to lower the landing gear.

“He made a slight heading adjustment to avoid overflying a caravan park and reduced the airspeed to 100 kt, closed the throttle and prepared for touchdown.

“He briefed his passenger to brace, gently rounded out and landed in the field.”