What happened
On 11 May 2025, a Pegasus Quik, registration G-CDOP, was conducting a private local flight near Perth Airport. While at approximately 2,000 ft agulations in the area of Perth Racecourse, the pilot experienced a sudden rightward pitch, describing the sensation as hitting a deep pothole. Following this event, the aircraft became unstable and difficult to manage, particularly when attempting to reduce speed. Despite the instability and difficulty maintaining a straight track during the approach, the pilot successfully landed the aircraft on Runway 09.
Upon taxiing, the pilot identified damage consisting of a torn section on the right wing's trailing edge. No injuries were sustained by the pilot or the passenger, and no fatalities occurred.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the cause of the aircraft's sudden instability and the physical damage to the wing. Inspections of the Pegasus Quik confirmed that the damage was not caused by propeller strikes or components detaching from the aircraft itself. Investigators noted black strike marks on the wing material near the tear, which indicated contact with a manmade object rather than a bird strike. The pilot suggested the damage might have resulted from a collision with a UAV, noting that a local event was taking place nearby which could have attracted drone activity, though no direct evidence of a UAV was found.
Additionally, the investigation examined safety practices on board. It was discovered that neither the pilot nor the passenger was utilizing the diagonal seat harnesses, relying solely on lap straps. The pilot indicated a long-standing habit of not using the diagonal restraint, citing concerns that it might restrict movement of the control bar.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained structural damage to the right trailing edge of the wing.
- The presence of black marks on the wing material suggests a collision with a manmade object, such as a UAV.
- The pilot and passenger were not wearing their diagonal seat harnesses during the flight.