What happened
On 28 July 2009, a Cessna U206G Stationair, registration G-BSUE, was conducting a private sightseeing flight when the aircraft experienced a significant loss of altitude during its approach to Elstree Aerodrome. Following an initial takeoff attempt, the pilot observed that the aircraft was not accelerating at the expected rate. Attributing this to the increased weight of the aircraft, which was carrying five passengers, the pilot decided to abort the flight and return to the airfield.
During the final approach, near the runway threshold, the aircraft underwent a sudden descent. In an attempt to manage the descent and prevent the aircraft from bouncing upon touchdown, the pilot increased engine power. During this maneuver, the aircraft yawed sharply to the left and struck the ground. The impact resulted in damage to the propeller, both wings, and the landing gear. All six occupants, including the pilot and five passengers, exited the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight conditions and the pilot's actions during the critical phases of takeoff and landing. Witnesses noted that the aircraft maintained a higher nose-up attitude than usual during the initial takeoff roll. While the weather was generally good, a strong and gusty westerly wind was present.
Investigators looked into the pilot's perception of the aircraft's performance and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The pilot noted that the aircraft appeared to be stalling at a higher airspeed than anticipated, though he did not report hearing the stall warning horn. The investigation also considered the physical inputs made by the pilot during the sudden descent near the runway threshold.