What happened
On 28 August 2007, a single-seat Chaser S weight-shift microlight, registration G-MVVU, was conducting a private flight near Burton on the Wolds, Leicestershire. The pilot had originally intended to fly earlier in the day to avoid warmer temperatures, but delayed the departure to coordinate with another pilot.
While the initial takeoff and climb were successful, the pilot encountered increasingly turbulent and thermic air during the flight. As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot experienced significant instability due to the weather. After performing five unsuccessful approaches and go-arounds, the pilot attempted a sixth approach. Just before the intended touchdown, the aircraft was hit by severe sinking air. Despite applying full power and adjusting the control bar forward, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 30 feet before the runway threshold in a steep upslope area. The impact caused the aircraft to collapse and bounce, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft. The pilot sustained two broken legs but was able to exit the wreckage without assistance.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's handling characteristics and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. Analysis of the Chaser S noted that, due to its low wing loading, the aircraft is particularly sensitive to gusts.
Meteorological data from a Met Office weather balloon launched at 1115 UTC provided insight into the local atmosphere. While the pilot reported north-north-west winds gusting above 10 kt, the balloon analysis suggested surface winds were variable at approximately 2 kt. However, the data confirmed the presence of convective activity and cumulus cloud development, which supported the existence of the thermic activity reported by the pilot.
Findings
- The pilot's limited flying experience and lack of recent flight time contributed to the difficulty in managing the turbulent conditions.
- The decision to fly later in the morning, rather than during the calmer early morning period, exposed the aircraft to increasing thermal activity.
- Severe sinking air prevented the pilot from maintaining the necessary altitude for a safe touchdown.