Accident Overview
On 31 August 2018 at 0820 UTC, a Pegasus Quantum 15-912 (registration G-BYRJ, serial number 7548) sustained damage during a landing at Redlands Airfield, Wiltshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1999 and powered by a single Rotax 912 piston engine, was on a private flight with one pilot and one passenger aboard.
Flight Details
The pilot, aged 56 and holding a National Private Pilot's Licence with 41 total flying hours (all on type), had flown 7 hours in the previous 28 days and 20 hours in the last 90 days. After a 10-minute local flight, the pilot and passenger were returning to the grass airfield.
Approach and Landing
The pilot initiated a low, powered approach to Runway 08 north. The wind was reported from 070° at 6 knots. As the aircraft cleared a high hedge before the runway threshold, the pilot perceived a change in wind direction, causing the aircraft to lose height. The resulting touchdown occurred much shorter than intended, and the aircraft landed heavily on the nose landing gear.
Damage and Injuries
The hard landing damaged the nose landing gear and the pod. Both occupants exited the aircraft unaided and without injury.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot noted that the low approach was a poor choice as it did not provide sufficient altitude to adjust the landing approach after the wind conditions changed.