What happened
On 7 July 2020, a Savannah VG Jabiru, registration G-DOTW, was conducting a flight near Clipgate to test a newly installed transponder. The flight involved two occupants: an unlicensed individual in the left seat and a licensed pilot in the right seat. Following a departure from Clipgate, the occupants proceeded to Boyes Hill, a grass airstrip, to perform circuits.
During the first approach, the aircraft encountered significant turbulence caused by wind moving over a nearby wooded area. Although the initial touchdown was heavier than intended, the occupants inspected the landing gear and, finding no visible damage, decided to continue. However, during subsequent attempts to land, the aircraft encountered the same turbulent conditions. During the flare of a third approach, maximum power was applied to initiate a go-around. During this maneuver, the left wing was lifted by the wind, causing the right wing to strike the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to yaw sharply to the right, leaving it facing the runway threshold. There were no injuries to the two people on board, though the engine and airframe suffered severe damage.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances of the flight, including the roles of the occupants and the aircraft's configuration. The investigation noted that the person in the left seat was not holding a pilot's licence. While the CAA permits operation from the right seat under specific conditions, the aircraft was equipped with toe brakes only accessible from the left side. Additionally, the investigation looked into the environmental factors, specifically the wind patterns near the airfield's edge.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered turbulence generated by wind passing over a wood located to the left of the runway.
- The left wing lifted due to the wind, causing the right wing to strike the ground.
- The aircraft was being operated with an unlicensed individual in the left seat, despite the presence of a licensed pilot in the right seat.