What happened
On 13 April 2003, a Chaser S microlight, registration G-MVZY, departed from a private farm strip near Doncaster for a flight to a location near Blackpool. During the flight, the aircraft was observed flying at a very low altitude of approximately 100 feet near Clitheroe. Witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to be buffeted by gusty winds, though they noted no obvious mechanical issues with the aircraft or the pilot's handling. Shortly after being seen west of Clitheroe, the aircraft struck the ground in open countryside. The impact resulted in one fatality and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and analyzed GPS data recovered from the aircraft. The GPS records indicated that the pilot had been performing maneuvers consistent with ridge soaring on the eastern face of Pendle Hill, reaching groundspeeds of up to 148 mph. Following this, the aircraft tracked downwind toward the accident site.
Technical examinations of the Chaser S revealed that the engine was in good working order and showed no signs of failure prior to the crash. The propeller was undamaged, suggesting the engine may have been stopped at the moment of impact. While some damage was noted on the right wing leading edge, it was unclear if this was caused by the impact or by aerodynamic loads during flight. Maintenance records for the aircraft were found to be complete and up to date.
Findings
- The area was experiencing significant wind conditions, with surface winds of 18 knots gusting to 27 knots.
- The proximity to Pendle Hill likely created severe turbulence or rotors due to the wind interacting with the terrain.
- Glider operations at a nearby aerodrome had already been suspended due to similar turbulent conditions and windshear.
- The pilot was flying at a very low altitude, which left almost no margin for error if the aircraft encountered a sudden loss of control or an engine failure.