Accident Overview
On 20 June 2011 at 1510 UTC, an EV-97 TeamEurostar UK microlight aircraft, registration G-CEDV, sustained damage during landing at a private strip at Grove Farm, Wolvey, Leicestershire. The aircraft was on a private flight with one pilot and one passenger. Both occupants were uninjured and vacated the aircraft unaided after shutdown.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, manufactured in 2006, was powered by a single Rotax 912-UL piston engine. The pilot, aged 48, held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 191 flying hours, of which 43 were on type. His recent flying experience included 10 hours in the last 90 days and 2 hours in the last 28 days.
Runway and Environmental Conditions
The landing strip was 350 m long and 14 m (45 ft) wide, with a grass surface. On both sides of the runway, a standing crop of oilseed rape, approximately 4 ft high, was present. The surface wind was light and variable in direction, predominantly along the runway or slightly from the right.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft joined a right-hand circuit for Runway 11. The approach and touchdown were reported as normal. After the nosewheel was on the ground, the pilot applied the brakes. As the speed reduced, the aircraft drifted to the left. The pilot was looking ahead along the runway and did not notice the proximity of the vegetation. The left wing made contact with the crop, causing the aircraft to immediately slew to the left. The nose then entered the crop, and the engine stopped.
Damage
As the aircraft crossed a small drop at the edge of the runway near the cultivated area, the right main landing gear and right wing were damaged.
Injuries and Occupant Actions
The pilot and passenger, both wearing full shoulder harnesses, sustained no injuries and left the aircraft without assistance after it was shut down.