Twin Otter Accident at Flotta, Orkney (G-STUD)

Approach and Landing Conditions Strong winds were reported at Flotta as the Twin Otter approached Orkney Island. The aircraft first contacted the airport at 11:56 and was informed that the surface wind was indicating 260°/26 knots. The pilot elected to make a straight-in approach to runway 35, preferring the crosswind to come from the left so that the left main wheel could be seen onto the runway. ## Loss of Control After Touchdown The aircraft touched down with the left main wheel first, followed by the right main wheel. As the nosewheel touched, the commander selected reverse thrust from the propellers. An audible stall warning sounded momentarily at touchdown. Shortly after reverse thrust was selected and achieved, the left wing began to rise. The captain applied full left wing-down aileron and full left rudder, then cancelled reverse thrust from the right-hand propeller and increased forward power on that engine. These actions were unable to prevent the left wing from rising further. ## Crash Sequence The right-hand wingtip contacted the ground, causing the aircraft to yaw to the right. It then fell back momentarily onto the main wheels before cartwheeling through an aerodrome boundary fence. The aircraft came to rest on its left side, with both wings detached. All 12 occupants escaped uninjured, while the airplane was damaged beyond repair.