What happened
On 7 November 1998, an Avid Speedwing, registration G-BTKG, was performing a private flight at Thruxton Airfield in Hampshire. During the landing phase on Runway 25, the aircraft encountered a 12-knot wind from the south. As the aircraft touched down, the left wing lifted, causing the right wingtip to make contact with the runway surface. This movement led to the collapse of the nose landing gear, which subsequently caused the propeller to strike the ground. The aircraft came to a halt on the runway, and both occupants were able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry focused on the sequence of events during the touchdown and the resulting structural damage. The aircraft, which was powered by a single Rotax 582 piston engine, suffered significant damage to its landing gear, propeller, and the right wing. The pilot, who held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 176 total flying hours, was among the two crew members on board.