History of the Flight
The aircraft, built from a kit in 1998, originally had a mono-wheel undercarriage but was modified later that year to a conventional tricycle in a tail-wheel configuration. Experienced pilots described it as an aircraft requiring careful ground handling, especially below 40 kt.
On 10 May 2008, the pilot flew from Old Sarum, Salisbury, and joined the circuit pattern for Runway 22 at Wellcross Farm, Horsham, West Sussex. The runway was a grass strip 650 m long and 40 m wide, situated on a hill with its highest point near the midpoint. Weather conditions were described as good with a light and variable wind.
The Landing
The aircraft was positioned onto final approach. The pilot noted an airspeed 10 kt faster than normal and a steeper approach path. He selected full flap and reduced power to idle but still could not touch down at his intended point, so he accepted a landing point further down the runway. During the flare, the airspeed remained 5 to 10 kt too fast, causing the aircraft to float before touching down. It then bounced and became airborne again. The aircraft finally landed with an estimated 200 m of runway remaining. The pilot applied brakes, and the aircraft yawed to the right then rapidly to the left. The pilot lost directional control, and the aircraft slid into a drainage ditch at approximately 10 kt.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot, the sole occupant, reported no injuries. The aircraft sustained a broken undercarriage leg and a propeller strike.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot considered the cause of the accident to be his unstable approach and touching down beyond his normal touchdown point with a higher than normal airspeed. He also felt that high temperatures and a light tailwind may have been contributory factors.