What happened
On May 31, 2008, a SAMBA microlight, registration OK-MUA 78, was participating in a private flight from Abbeyshrule Airfield to Clonbullogue Airfield in Co. Offaly. The aircraft was flying in a loose formation with another similar microlight.
As the pilot attempted to land on Runway 09, the aircraft experienced a slight bounce upon touchdown. During the landing roll, the aircraft began to veer toward the left. In an effort to abort the landing, the pilot applied full power to initiate a go-around. However, during this maneuver, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. The OK-MUA 78 subsequently struck the airfield's boundary wire fence. The force of the impact caused the aircraft to swing approximately 180 degrees before coming to a complete stop. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events following the initial touchdown on Runway 09. Investigators examined the aircraft's behavior during the transition from landing to the go-around attempt. The inspection of the aircraft revealed significant impact damage to several key components, including the propeller, the front nose wheel, the right-hand main gear, and both the left and right wings. The investigation also confirmed that the pilot successfully shut off the fuel and electrical systems following the impact, preventing any fire from developing.