What happened
On 6 March 1999, a modified Cessli FR172J, registration G-BAIL, was conducting a private flight to a farm strip located at Farley Farm West, Winchester. The flight was operated by a pilot with 200 total flying hours, accompanied by a more experienced pilot in the right-hand seat.
Upon approaching the airfield, the pilot found it difficult to distinguish the runway from the surrounding arable landscape. After identifying the strip, the pilot initially intended to land on runway 04 to take advantage of the northerly wind and the slight up-slope. However, during the circuit, the pilot noted parked aircraft encroaching on the right side of the runway. Consequently, the pilot opted to land on a grassy area to the left of the strip.
While the initial touchdown on the main wheels was gentle, the crew quickly realized the aircraft had landed on a patch of young wheat rather than firm grass. As the aircraft moved across the surface, the pilot noted the ground was rough and stones were striking the wheel spats. The pilot decided not to attempt a go-around, opting instead to let the aircraft decelerate naturally without using brakes. As the speed dropped to approximately 20 kt, the nosewheel dug into the earth, causing the aircraft to invert.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the circumstances of the landing surface and the sequence of events leading to the loss of control. The inspection confirmed that the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller, engine, and airframe structure. The investigation established that both occupants were able to exit the inverted aircraft without assistance and sustained no injuries.