What happened
On 30 June 2002, a Denney Kitfox MK2, registration G-KAWA, was conducting a private pleasure flight returning to Long Marston Airfield. Due to the asphalt runway being occupied by drag racing activities, the pilot opted to land on the grass runway 20. At the time of the landing, winds were observed to be from approximately 240° at 12 knots, with gusts reaching 18 knots.
The pilot experienced a turbulent descent and noted that a wind gust lifted the aircraft to roughly 15 feet as it crossed the runway threshold. After stabilizing the aircraft at 20 feet, a touchdown was executed on the dry grass. During the subsequent ground roll, the right wing lifted. Despite the pilot applying full right stick to correct the movement, the left wing tip eventually made contact with the ground, initiating a ground loop to the left. The aircraft's momentum caused the nose to dip, resulting in the propeller striking the ground. The aircraft continued to pitch forward until it came to rest in an inverted position at the edge of the runway. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft safely following the shutdown of the fuel and electrical systems.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's damage, which included a broken propeller, a distorted engine mount and vertical stabilizer, and buckled wing struts. Investigators reviewed the wind conditions, noting that a gust from 250° would have created a 14-knot crosswind component. The investigation also considered the manufacturer's guidance, which suggests the aircraft can tolerate crosswinds up to 15 knots provided the pilot possesses sufficient skill and currency.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in gusty conditions with a crosswind component of up to 14 knots.
- The pilot's attempt to correct the rising right wing with full right stick was momentarily successful but ultimately failed to prevent the left wing tip from striking the ground.
- The ground loop led to a nose-down pitch that caused the propeller to impact the surface and the aircraft to overturn.