What happened
On 26 May 2015, a Pulsar, registration G-MCMS, was performing a private flight at Pembrey Airport in Carmarthenshire. During the final stages of the approach to Runway 04, the pilot encountered turbulence while flying over a forested area situated to the south of the airfield. This turbulence, potentially accompanied by atmospheric sink, resulted in the aircraft being positioned too low on its approach.
As the aircraft progressed toward the runway, the main undercarriage wheels struck the top of the airfield's boundary chain-link fence. This impact occurred approximately 66 m from the displaced threshold. Following the collision, the aircraft came to a stop on the runway strip. The pilot, who was wearing a full harness, was able to exit the aircraft with no injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the approach path and the physical constraints of the airfield. According to the UK Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP), Runway 04 at Pembrey is a Code 1 runway with a TODA of 797 m. Under CAP 168 guidelines, a Code 1 runway requires an approach surface with a 5% gradient. This regulation dictates that at the boundary—located 36 m from the start of the runway strip—obstacles must not exceed a height of 1.8 m (6 ft).
Investigators measured the boundary fence and determined that its height was slightly less than the 6 ft limit permitted by aerodrome licensing requirements. The investigation also noted damage to the aircraft's propeller, spinner, lower front fuselage, wheels, wheel fairings, and the leading edge and tip of one wing.