What happened
On 13 May 2001, a DH82A Tiger Moth, registration G-AJOA, was performing a private flight at Lotmead Farm, near Swindon. The aircraft had taken off from the farm strip earlier that afternoon under favorable weather conditions, characterized by clear skies and a very light easterly wind.
During the return to the airfield, the pilot conducted an approach to Runway 22. The pilot reported an approach speed of approximately 70 mph. The aircraft touched down near the midpoint of the 700-metre runway. Following the touchdown, the pilot initially attempted a go-around procedure but subsequently aborted the maneuver. As the aircraft decelerated, it drifted toward the left side of the strip. During this excursion, the aircraft struck farm machinery and then collided with the boundary fence. The aircraft eventually came to a stop at the far end of the runway. The pilot, who was secured by a four-point harness, was able to exit the aircraft without any injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the contact with the farm equipment and the perimeter fence. The assessment of the aircraft's flight path and speed was central to determining why the aircraft failed to remain within the confines of the runway strip.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to its wings, propeller, and the port tail plane.
- The pilot identified excessive speed during the approach as the primary factor in the accident.