Accident Overview
On 8 August 2020, a training flight involving an EV-97 TeamEurostar UK microlight, registration G-CIKT, resulted in damage to the wing leading edges after the aircraft landed heavily and struck a fence at Peterborough/Conington Airport in Cambridgeshire. The aircraft was powered by a single Rotax 912-UL piston engine and was being used for a conversion lesson with a student and instructor on board.
Flight Details
The instructor reported that during the pre-flight briefing, it was agreed that he would take control on the base leg and land the aircraft. The wind was from 050° at 17 knots with strong and sharp gusts. As the aircraft was about to touch down on Runway 010, a strong gust caused the aircraft to 'balloon' before it landed heavily. The aircraft bounced and drifted to the right as the instructor initiated a go-around. However, the aircraft touched down in long grass and continued moving until it struck a fence.
Environmental Factors
The instructor believed that nearby trees affected the strong wind, causing it to be gusty. The crosswind component at touchdown was near the aircraft's maximum operational limit of 16 knots.
Occupants and Damage
There were no injuries to the crew, and no passengers were on board. The damage was limited to the wing leading edges.
Commander Experience
The commander held a National Private Pilot's Licence, was 50 years old, and had accumulated 461 flying hours, of which 319 were on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 10 hours, and in the last 28 days, 9 hours.