What happened
On 25 January 2015, a Skyranger J2.2(3), registration G-CBXS, was performing a private flight at Ince Airfield, Merseyside. During the approach to Runway 18, the weather conditions were characterized by a south-westerly wind of approximately 11 knots.
While the pilot was completing the landing sequence, a sudden gust of wind caught the starboard wing, lifting it and causing the aircraft to become airborne once more. This secondary flight phase occurred at an insufficient airspeed for a controlled touchdown. Consequently, the aircraft struck the ground with significant force on its nosewheel. The impact resulted in the bending of the nose leg backwards and caused the propeller to strike the runway surface.
The investigation
Following the incident, the AAIB examined the damage to the aircraft. The impact caused damage to the nose leg, nosewheel, and spat, as well as the engine cowlings and the propeller. There were indications that the engine may have been subject to a shock-load during the event. The pilot, who was flying under a National Private Pilot’s Licence, sustained no injuries and was able to exit the aircraft without assistance.