What happened
On 30 August 2022, a Cessna A185F Skywagon, registration G-SAUO, was conducting a private cross-country flight from Shelsley Beauchamp Airfield in Worcestershire to Luxters Farm Airstrip in Buckinghamshire. During the approach to Runway 28, the aircraft experienced a bounce upon touchdown. In response to this, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure.
During the maneuver, the aircraft struck trees located at the far end of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest on the ground, where it was partially held by the tree canopy. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries, specifically minor bruising. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators noted that Luxters Farm is a private grass airstrip measuring 950 metres in length, oriented 10/28, and is surrounded by trees.
Analysis of the cockpit environment revealed that the aircraft had been modified with full four-point seat restraints, replacing the standard lap belt arrangement. The pilot indicated that these specific restraints likely prevented more significant injuries to the occupants. Furthermore, the pilot noted that the accident could have been avoided had the decision to execute the go-around been made immediately following the initial bounced landing.