Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft involved was an Aeronca 7AC Champion, registration G-AJON, powered by a single Continental A65 piston engine. Manufactured in 1946, the private flight occurred on 26 June 1999 at 1500 UTC from Oaklands Farm Strip near Stonesfield, Oxon. The sole occupant was the pilot, aged 54, holding a Private Pilot's Licence with 366 hours total flying experience (122 hours on type). His recent flying included 4 hours in the last 90 days and 2 hours in the last 28 days.
Accident Narrative
The pilot was conducting a local flight and initiated an approach to Runway 12, a grass strip 400 metres in length. Weather conditions were good, with the pilot estimating the surface wind from 200° at 5 to 12 knots. Power lines were present on the approach path, approximately 150 metres from the threshold. To ensure vertical clearance above the cables, the pilot applied additional power. However, while passing over farm buildings near the strip, the aircraft encountered turbulence and experienced a loss of lift. Despite applying full power, the aircraft struck a cable. The impact shattered the windscreen and caused damage to the wing struts.
Aftermath
The pilot sustained a cut above his eye, and blood impaired his vision. Nevertheless, he was able to execute a go-around, followed by a successful circuit and landing without further incident.