What happened
On 26 November 2022, a Dorn and Do 28A-1, registered N123CA, was performing a private flight from Old Warden to Spanhoe Airfield. Prior to the approach, the pilot observed the windsock to confirm conditions, noting winds from 190° at 12 kt with gusts up to 18 kt. The pilot selected the 700 m concrete Runway 27 for the arrival.
During a long, crabbed approach, the pilot executed a tail-low wheeler landing, utilizing power on the left engine to assist with directional control. As the pilot reduced power on the left engine, a sudden, powerful gust lifted the left wing. In an attempt to maintain the runway centerline, the pilot applied maximum aileron and right braking; however, the aircraft swung approximately 25° to the left and exited the runway onto the adjacent grassed parking area.
To avoid colliding with parked vehicles or performing a ground loop, the pilot initiated an immediate go-around. During the climb, the left wing of the aircraft struck several saplings located near the hangars. After verifying that the flight controls remained functional, the pilot returned to Old Warden for a subsequent landing.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the loss of control. A post-flight inspection of N123CA identified damage to the left wing slat, which had been dented, as well as damage to the tip of the right elevator and the horizontal stabiliser. A functional check of the flight controls performed after the event showed no mechanical issues with controllability.