What happened
On 19 July 2016, a Skyranger 582, registration G-CGMK, was engaged in a private local flight near Over Farm Microlight Strip in Gloucestershire. The conditions at the time were characterized by high humidity and heat, with nearly calm winds.
During the initial approach to the grass runway, the pilot determined the aircraft was too high for a safe landing and decided to perform a go-around. On the subsequent second approach, the aircraft drifted further down the runway than the pilot had expected. While attempting to execute a touch-and-go maneuver, the aircraft struck the ground with significant force, leading to the collapse of the nosewheel. This impact caused the propeller to strike the ground, which forced the aircraft to rotate 180 degrees over its nose, eventually coming to rest in an inverted position.
Both the pilot and the single passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry examined the flight sequence, the environmental conditions, and the pilot's decision-making process regarding the approach and landing. The investigation noted that while the pilot observed a slight tailwind via the windsock during the evacuation, the primary issue stemmed from the aircraft's behavior during the second approach.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a heavy landing that triggered the nosewheel failure.
- The pilot delayed the decision to go around, which contributed to the aircraft being in an unsuitable position for a safe landing.
- The aircraft's momentum and the propeller's contact with the ground caused the subsequent nose-over and inversion.