What happened
On 20 May 2018, a Mainair Blade microlight, registration G-CCZW, was performing a private flight at Headon Airstrip in Nottinghamshire. To avoid noise-sensitive areas, the pilot attempted an offset approach to Runway 14. The flight plan involved flying towards the northern boundary of the airstrip on a heading of approximately 170-180 degrees before turning left to align with the runway centerline.
During the maneuver, the pilot realized the aircraft was drifting right toward a tall crop of rapeseed adjacent to the runway. In an attempt to correct the flight path, the pilot initiated a left turn to rejoin the centerline. This maneuver resulted in a heavy touchdown, after which the aircraft veered toward the perimeter. The left wingtip made contact with a boundary hedge, causing the aircraft to spin before coming to a halt. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained minor damage to the pod/trike unit and the left wing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's experience, the airfield's approach procedures, and the environmental factors present during the landing. The pilot had 71 total flying hours, all on this specific type. While the pilot had previously performed landings on Runway 14 under the supervision of an instructor, this was only the third time they had attempted the runway independently.
Investigators reviewed the airstrip's recommended approach procedures, which suggest an offset approach to mitigate noise impact. The investigation also considered the impact of the surrounding landscape, specifically the tall rapeseed crop and the boundary hedge, which the pilot noted had created a sense of restriction and distraction during the final stages of the approach.