Incident Overview
On 12 March 2001 at 1515 hours, a Cessna 172N (registration G-OZOO) operated by a private pilot on a solo flight experienced an incident during landing at Kent International Airport (Manston). The aircraft sustained a propeller strike with damage to the propeller tips. The pilot, aged 53, held a Private Pilot's Licence with a Night Rating and had 94 hours total flying experience, including 8 hours on type.
Flight Background
The flight departed Lydd Airport at 1415 hours for a solo local flight eastward. The pilot obtained an area forecast indicating surface wind 210°/18 kt, visibility 20 to 30 km with some cumulus clouds. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot monitored radio transmissions from another aircraft diverting to Lydd from Shoreham due to bad weather. Upon inquiry, Lydd ATC reported an active cell developing over the airfield. A departing military helicopter described it as a 'short sharp shower,' and another aircraft approaching Lydd from the north reported 'low cloud and poor visibility.'
Diversion and Approach
In response to the deteriorating weather at Lydd, the pilot decided to divert to Manston. He was instructed to join the left-hand circuit for Runway 28 and received the current weather, noting a significant crosswind from the left. During final approach, the pilot was informed by the previous landing aircraft of turbulence on the approach.
Landing and Incident
With 20° of flap set and an airspeed of approximately 65 kt, the aircraft touched down normally, and the pilot closed the throttle. Shortly after, the right wing dropped suddenly, and the aircraft veered to the right. The pilot initially suspected a burst right landing gear tyre. He managed to level the wings but, despite applying left rudder and braking, the aircraft departed the right side of the runway onto grass. As the aircraft slowed, the pilot taxied back onto the runway, shut down, and awaited the airfield Rescue and Fire Fighting Service. Later, while parked in the General Aviation area, a propeller tip strike was discovered.
Probable Cause
The pilot considered the incident was caused by a violent crosswind gust associated with the oncoming storm front, which had caught the aircraft just after landing.