What happened
On 12 October 2003, a Denney Kitfox Mk 2, registration G-BSFY, departed from the tarmac runway 04 at Long Marston, Warwickshire. At the time of takeoff, the surface wind was recorded at 090°/10 kt, which was consistent with the flight forecast.
Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, the pilot returned to the airfield to find that wind conditions had significantly changed. The surface wind had increased to 110°/30 kt, creating a crosswind component of 20 kt. This value exceeded the aircraft's established crosswind limit of 15 kt. The pilot evaluated the possibility of diverting to another airfield but found no other easily accessible options. A landing on the open grass area to the south-east of the runway was also considered but rejected due to the risk of hidden obstructions.
Deciding to proceed with a landing on Runway 04, the pilot executed a successful approach and touchdown. During the deceleration phase, the pilot maintained full back stick and right aileron input. However, as the aircraft slowed to approximately 20 kt, the right wing lifted, causing the left wingtip to strike the ground. While the pilot retained directional control, the force of the crosswind caused the left wingtip to delaminate and the left landing gear to collapse before the aircraft stopped.
The investigation
The investigation examined the meteorological conditions at the time of the landing and the pilot's decision-making process regarding the increased wind speed. The inquiry reviewed the aircraft's technical specifications, specifically its crosswind limitations, and assessed the physical damage sustained by the Denney Kitfox Mk 2.
Findings
- The wind speed during the return to Long Marston had increased to 30 kt, resulting in a 20 kt crosswind component.
- This crosswind exceeded the aircraft's maximum allowable limit of 15 kt.
- The pilot's decision to land on the runway was influenced by the lack of accessible alternative airfields and the risks associated with landing on grass.
- The impact of the left wingtip and the subsequent collapse of the left landing gear were caused by the aerodynamic forces of the wind during the landing rollout.