What happened
On 19 October 2019, a Quik GT450, registration G-CGNK, was conducting a training flight at Beccles Aerodrome in Suffolk. The flight involved an instructor seated in the rear position and a passenger in the front seat. During the initial approach to Runway 27, the crew performed a go-around due to turbulence.
On the subsequent second approach, which was initially stable, the aircraft encountered a sudden and significant sink rate at an altitude of less than 10 feet above the runway. This caused the aircraft to pitch downward and roll to the right. The pilot was unable to arrest the descent, leading to a firm touchdown. Following the impact, the trike tipped onto its right side and slid approximately 20 feet along the runway. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's configuration and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The weather was reported as having a south-westerly wind of approximately 7 knots. The pilot noted that south-westerly winds at this airfield can create turbulence due to nearby trees and buildings.
Because the instructor was operating from the rear seat, the investigation looked into the accessibility of engine controls. While the aircraft features a hand throttle accessible to both seats, the pilot noted that the physical requirement to move his hand from the control bar to the throttle would have been difficult to execute within the extremely short timeframe of the sudden sink.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a sudden, strong sink and a right-hand roll just before touchdown.
- The instructor was operating the aircraft from the rear seat, which can result in reduced control authority.
- The suddenness of the descent made it difficult to apply corrective engine power in time.
- The aircraft sustained severe damage to the airframe and wing.