Flight and Approach
The aircraft, an Ikarus C42 FB80 registered as G-CEAK, departed Manchester Barton Airfield and flew to Ince Airfield, Merseyside. The pilot, who held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 280 hours of total flying experience (145 on type), was familiar with Ince. An approach was made to Runway 29, which has a length of 440 m and a width of 20 m. The final approach path crossed an open arable field that was growing a crop of potatoes at the time.
Accident Sequence
During the approach, the pilot observed an irrigation sprinkler operating in the field to the north of the approach path but considered that it was not in the way. However, when the aircraft was on short final, the windscreen was suddenly sprayed with water, removing the view ahead. The aircraft sank down short of the runway. The left main wheel caught in the crop, and the left wing support strut detached. The aircraft continued rolling towards Runway 29, crossed a ditch, and the left landing gear leg detached. The aircraft then ran onto the runway surface before coming to a stop.
Damage and Injuries
The accident resulted in damage to the left landing gear, left wing strut, and the underside of the elevator skin. The pilot and the sole passenger were not injured.
Airfield Operator Comments
The airfield operator reported that the sprinkler system had not previously been used near the airfield. They considered that it did not represent a hazard unless an aircraft was low on the approach.