What happened
On 19 January 2019, a Cyclone AX3/503, registration G-MZEL, was conducting a private flight from Causeway Airfield, Coleraine. During the initial departure from the grass runway, wind conditions were light, with speeds under 5 mph. Upon reaching circuit height, the pilot elected to abort the flight because of rain and low cloud cover. During the subsequent circuit, the pilot noted a wind direction of approximately 120° at 15 mph.
While on final approach to Runway 16, the aircraft encountered a severe sink rate at an altitude of roughly 40 ft. Despite the application of full power, the pilot could not stop the rapid descent, leading to a heavy touchdown on the main landing gear. The aircraft subsequently bounced into the air at a nose-up attitude, reaching a height of approximately 15 ft, before pitching forward and striking the grass runway in a nose-down position. The impact caused significant damage to the cockpit and the nose of the aircraft.
Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries, including fractures to the pilot's vertebrae, elbow, wrist, and thumb, while the passenger suffered fractures to both legs. Both occupants were secured with full harnesses at the time of the accident.
The investigation
The investigation examined the sequence of the flight and the physical impact on the aircraft and its occupants. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's seat construction, noting that the seat cushions utilized standard low-density upholstery foam. This foam was found to be compliant with the airworthiness standards required for this specific aircraft design.