Accident Details
On 14 June 2014 at 1110 UTC, a Gemini Flash IIA microlight (registration G-MVJE, serial number 706-1188-6-W496) sustained damage during landing at Otherton Airfield, Staffordshire. The aircraft was on a private flight with the sole occupant, a 37-year-old pilot holding a National Private Pilot’s Licence and with 51 hours total flying experience (46 hours on type).
Sequence of Events
The pilot landed on grass Runway 07 with a reported wind from the south-east at 10 mph. During the landing roll, the aircraft hit a bump or dip, causing it to drift to the left. The pilot attempted to correct this drift but reported a gust of wind from the right, which lifted the right wing and induced a roll to the left. Despite the pilot’s attempt to steer left, the aircraft tipped such that the left wing and nose contacted the ground.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot, who was wearing a lap harness and a protective helmet, was uninjured. The aircraft sustained severe damage to the left wing, damage to the nose, and damage to the nosewheel.
Findings
The pilot considered the probable cause to be a combination of hitting the bump or dip and the gusting crosswind conditions.