What happened
On 25 September 2002, a Cessna F172E, registration G-ASPI, was performing a training flight at Deanland Airfield in East Sussex. During the approach to the 500-metre grass runway 24, the pilot utilized full flaps. Following touchdown, the pilot found that braking effectiveness was insufficient to stop the aircraft and subsequently decided to initiate a go-around by applying full power.
As the aircraft attempted to climb, it reached an altitude of roughly 60 feet before the left wing dropped, causing the aircraft to enter a left-hand spin. The aircraft struck the ground with its left wing and cartwheeled across the apron, ultimately colliding with two hangars. The impact resulted in substantial damage to two buildings and the destruction of the aircraft. Although the fuel tanks were breached during the accident, no fire occurred. The pilot sustained one serious injury and was eventually extracted from the wreckage by witnesses.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage to determine the configuration of the aircraft during the accident. The inspection revealed that the flaps were set to approximately 40 degrees, which represents a nearly fully extended position. While this setting is appropriate for approaching short runways, it is not a configuration used for takeoff.
Findings
- The pilot attempted a go-around while the aircraft was still in a high-drag flap configuration.
- The failure to reduce the flap setting to a takeoff position before applying full power during the go-around contributed to the loss of control.