Casualties unknown

2011-07-30: Cessna 120 (G-BUJM) — Yeovilton Airfield, Somerset, GB

Yeovilton Airfield, Somerset, GB

On July 30, 2011, a Cessna 120 (registration G-BUJM) was involved in an aviation accident near Yeovilton Airfield, Somerset, GB. This summary draws on records from the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).

Sourcesthe UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB)Primary reportUpdated 1785053200Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered G-BUJM
Aircraft registered G-BUJM. Photo: Mike Burdett from CROMER, UK / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On 30 July 2011, a Cessna 120 training flight experienced a ground loop on landing at Yeovilton Airfield, Somerset. The aircraft sustained damage to landing gear and tailwheel, but both occupants were uninjured.

Aircraft and Flight Details

The accident involved a 1946 Cessna 120, registration G-BUJM, powered by a single Continental Motors Corp C85-12F piston engine. The flight was a training sortie with two crew members aboard and no passengers. The commander, aged 60, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and had 9,870 hours of total flying experience, including 3 hours on type. His recent flying included 55 hours in the last 90 days and 10 hours in the last 28 days.

Accident Narrative

On 30 July 2011 at 1105 UTC, the aircraft conducted a normal approach and touchdown at Yeovilton Airfield, Somerset. The wind was a headwind of 8–10 kt, which the pilot considered normal. After touchdown, the aircraft yawed to the right. The pilot and instructor applied full left rudder and left brake in an attempt to correct the yaw, but the aircraft continued to turn right. It eventually stopped after rotating approximately 270° to the right.

Damage and Injuries

The accident resulted in damage to the left mainwheel, tailwheel mounting, and right landing gear mounting. Both occupants were wearing lap and diagonal harnesses and were uninjured.

Pilot Information

The commander was 60 years old with extensive flying experience, though minimal time on the Cessna 120 type. The source of information is the Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot.