Accident Overview
On 30 August 2022 at 1008 UTC, a Cessna A185F Skywagon (registration G-SAUO, serial number 185-02324, year of manufacture 1974) was destroyed in an accident at Luxters Farm Airstrip, Henley-on-Thames, Buckinghamshire. The aircraft was powered by a single Continental Motors Corp IO-520-D piston engine. The flight was a private cross-country from Shelsley Beauchamp Airfield, Worcestershire, to Luxters Farm Airstrip.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that after flying an approach to Runway 28, the aircraft bounced on landing. He then decided to go around. During the go-around, the aircraft struck trees at the far end of the runway and came to rest on the ground, partially supported by the tree canopy. The airstrip is a private 950 m grass strip oriented 10/28, surrounded by trees. Weather conditions at the time were described as fine.
Occupant Injuries and Restraints
The pilot, aged 69, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence with 28,000 total flying hours, including 350 hours on type. He had flown 38 hours in the last 90 days and 10 hours in the last 28 days. The aircraft carried one passenger. Both occupants received minor bruising but were otherwise unharmed. The aircraft had been modified with full four-point seat restraints; the pilot stated that, in his opinion, these restraints prevented further injuries. The standard seat belt arrangement for the Cessna A185F is a lap belt.
Damage
The aircraft was destroyed.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot assessed that an earlier decision to go around, following the bounced landing, would have prevented the accident.