What happened
On 16 February 2016, a Cessna F172M Skyhawk, registration G-BEZR, was performing a private flight when it experienced a runway excursion at Bembridge Airport. Following a local flight, the pilot opted to land on Runway 30, utilizing the uphill gradient. At the time of the incident, wind conditions were reported as 180° at 5 knots and variable.
While the initial landing and rollout proceeded without issue, the situation changed as the aircraft passed the large hangar located to the south. As the pilot began applying the brakes, the left wing lifted and the aircraft weather-cocked to the left, causing it to depart the left side of the runway. In an attempt to maneuver the aircraft back onto the paved surface, the nosewheel entered soft ground, causing the aircraft to overturn onto its back. The pilot and two passengers were able to exit the aircraft through the standard exit. While the pilot sustained minor injuries, the passengers were uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation examined the physical damage to the aircraft and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The Cessna F172M Skyhawk sustained significant damage, including a shock-loaded engine, a bent propeller, bent wing struts, and disruption to the rear fuselage and fin. The windscreen and one cabin window were also broken.
Investigators looked into the pilot's actions and the potential impact of local wind patterns. The pilot noted that while the wind was not inherently difficult to manage, the sudden movement of the aircraft during the braking phase might have been triggered by a sudden gust or windshear, potentially influenced by the aircraft's position relative to the large hangar.