What happened
On 20 June 2016, a Pegasus Quik, registration G-OKEM, was conducting a private flight from Perth to Culbokie Airfield in Ross and Cromarty. Upon arriving overhead the airfield, the pilot joined the circuit for Runway 21. Based on windsock indications and weather reports from Inverness Airport, the pilot prepared for a higher speed approach to manage anticipated gusty conditions.
During the final stages of the approach, the pilot noted some buffeting while passing trees approximately 80 ft high. As the aircraft touched down, it bounced twice. Although the pilot attempted to initiate a go-around following the second bounce, the left wingtip made contact with the ground. This impact caused the aircraft to roll onto its side, resulting in damage to the cockpit area, the propeller blades, and the wing.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot and subsequent enquiries. The investigation examined the flight conditions, the aircraft's performance during the landing sequence, and the pilot's actions following the initial bounces. The pilot, who was wearing a three-point harness and a helmet, sustained minor injuries and was assisted from the wreckage by a bystander.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced two bounces during the landing phase.
- The pilot's attempt to perform a go-around after the second bounce was unsuccessful as the wingtip struck the ground.
- The pilot suggested that the flare may have been performed too high.
- Windshear caused by trees abeam the runway was identified as a potential contributing factor to the aircraft's instability during the landing.