What happened
On 7 May 2013, a Cessna 150H, registration G-BRJT, was conducting a private flight from Haverfordwest to Welshpool Airport. During the approach to Runway 22, the pilot was notified by the air/ground radio operator that wind conditions were variable, despite a forecast of 150° at 10 kt. The pilot chose to proceed with a two-stage flap approach at 60 kt IAS.
As the aircraft flared for landing, the pilot noted a significant rightward drift caused by the wind. Simultaneously, the stall warning horn activated, prompting the pilot to initiate a go-around. During the application of full power, the aircraft's tailplane made contact with a runway light. This impact caused the aircraft to become airborne briefly before the right-hand elevator struck a fence post, forcing the aircraft back to the ground. The pilot managed to steer the aircraft back toward the runway and bring it to a halt.
The investigation
The investigation examined the sequence of events leading to the contact with runway infrastructure and the subsequent loss of control. Investigators reviewed the pilot's actions during the transition from landing to go-around and the impact of the wind conditions on the aircraft's stability. The investigation also assessed the damage sustained by the aircraft's tailplane, the runway lighting, and the nearby fencing.
Findings
- The pilot attempted a go-around in response to excessive wind drift.
- The aircraft's tailplane struck a runway light during the power application phase.
- The impact with the light caused a momentary loss of control, leading to the elevator striking a fence post.
- There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
- Damage was sustained to the aircraft tailplane, runway lighting, and adjacent fencing.