What happened
On 17 August 2007, an Aeromot AMT-200S Super Ximango, registration G-CECJ, was performing a private flight at Lasham Airfield in Hampshire. The pilot was conducting his third solo flight in the aircraft, which he had recently acquired.
While on approach to land from the south at approximately 2,000 feet, the pilot's attention was diverted by intense glider operations occurring on the airfield. Specifically, the pilot was observing smoke in the distance and attempting to estimate wind strength and direction without the aid of a visible windsock. During this period, the pilot was also monitoring a vehicle on the perimeter track to ensure his intended touchdown point—a grass area south of Runway 27—would not be obstructed by the vehicle's path.
While focused on these ground activities, the aircraft's altitude decreased significantly. Upon realizing the aircraft was too low, the pilot deployed the airbrake but failed to apply power. The Aeromot AMT-200S Super Ximango struck the ground just outside the perimeter track with a high rate of descent. The impact occurred on upward-sloping, rough ground, resulting in substantial damage to the engine bearer, cowling, propeller, wings, landing gear, and airframe. The pilot sustained one minor injury to his back.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's flight path, the aircraft's configuration, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The AAIB reviewed the pilot's account and a hand-drawn sketch of the airfield activity. The investigation established that the pilot had trimmed the aircraft for a 60-knot gliding approach with the engine at idle.
Investigators also looked into the pilot's physical state and cockpit configuration, noting that a temporary domestic seat cushion was being used in the cockpit, which may have contributed to the pilot's back discomfort following the impact. The investigation also considered the pilot's decision-making regarding his landing site, noting his concerns about avoiding a glider winch launch queue and his hesitation to land on the paved runway due to the aircraft's small, vulnerable wheels.