What happened
On 31 March 2017, a student pilot operating a Cessna FA152, registration EI-EDC, departed Weston Airport for a solo navigation exercise. The intended route involved flying over Kinnegad before returning to the departure point. During the flight, the pilot observed a significant band of rain and low cloud approaching from the south. To avoid flying into instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot decided to divert to Trim Airfield.
While searching for the intended destination, the pilot observed a grass strip and a windsock and, under the pressure of approaching bad weather, mistakenly identified this location as Trim Airfield. The location was, in fact, Adamstown Airfield. After several unsuccessful landing attempts due to heavy winds, the pilot attempted a third landing. This approach was positioned south of the runway centerline to avoid nearby buildings. The aircraft touched down deep into an agricultural field consisting of soft, tilled soil. When the pilot applied the brakes, the nose wheel dug into the loose earth, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and come to rest inverted. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the pilot's flight experience, the meteorological conditions, and the airfield characteristics. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was flying under the authorization of an Approved Training Organisation and held a valid medical certificate. Investigators also interviewed an instructor who was flying nearby, confirming that heavy showers and low cloud were moving through the area. The investigation focused on why the pilot selected the incorrect airfield and the factors leading to the loss of control during the landing phase.
Findings
- The pilot' $ ext{}$s lack of familiarity with potential diversionary airfields led to the mistaken identification of Adamstown as Trim Airfield.
- The pilot attempted to land on an agricultural field rather than the prepared grass runway to avoid obstacles.
- The aircraft landed too far down the field, leaving insufficient distance to stop on the soft surface.
- The application of brakes caused the nose wheel to sink into the damp, tilled soil, triggering the overturn.
- The use of a four-point harness prevented more serious injuries to the pilot.