Aircraft and Flight Details
The accident involved a DH 82A Tiger Moth, registration G-AJTW, powered by one Gipsy Major 1 piston engine. The aircraft was manufactured in 1939. On 5 June 1999 at 1040 UTC, the aircraft was conducting a private flight from Raydon Airfield in Suffolk. The pilot, aged 52, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 950 total flying hours, of which 821 were on type. His recent experience included 19 hours in the last 90 days and 11 hours in the last 28 days.
Accident Narrative per Pilot
According to the pilot's report submitted via the Aircraft Accident Report Form, the aircraft had attended Raydon airstrip for a 'photo shoot'. The pilot stated that he was making an offset approach to land on Runway 27, with the surface wind blowing across the strip. He misjudged the height of a crop of standing wheat in the undershoot, causing the aircraft's main wheels to touch the crop about 30 feet short of the strip threshold. The resultant drag reduced forward speed, and the aircraft dropped onto its nose and port wing. The crash slewed the aircraft through 180 degrees, and it came to rest on its left side. Both occupants (the pilot and one passenger) escaped with bruises.
Alternative Explanation
An alternative explanation was forwarded to the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), claiming that the pilot was carrying out his fifth low fly-past for a publicity photograph in close proximity to grass cutting equipment. After passing the equipment at low height on a southerly heading, the aircraft gained height, turned through 100 degrees, and descended once more on a north-easterly heading. It continued descending, and the landing gear touched the crop, causing the aircraft to 'flip over'.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained severe damage. Both occupants suffered minor injuries.
Legal Outcome
Shortly after the accident, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) informed the AAIB that they were considering legal action against the pilot. The CAA subsequently prosecuted the pilot, who pleaded guilty in court to endangerment in contravention of Article 55 of the Air Navigation Order. The pilot was fined £2,000 plus costs of £350. The aircraft insurers denied the owner's claim due to the pilot's deliberate infringements of the law.