Accident Overview
On 4 May 2010, at approximately 0845 UTC, an EV-97 TeamEurostar UK microlight aircraft, registration G-SJES, was involved in an accident during landing at Eshott Airfield, Northumberland. The aircraft was conducting a private flight with a single pilot on board. The pilot reported no injuries.
Flight History
The pilot had completed a local flight and was returning to the airfield. During the approach, the pilot encountered some turbulence. The pilot executed an overhead join and became established on final approach at an altitude of 600 feet above ground level (agl). The surface wind was reported as westerly at 10 knots, and Runway 26 was in use.
Accident Sequence
In the last part of the approach, as the pilot reduced power during the flare, the aircraft dropped to the ground. It bounced twice and then stalled, landing on its nose landing gear, which subsequently collapsed.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the nose landing gear, propeller, engine firewall, and floor. No other damage was reported.
Pilot Information
The pilot, aged 66, held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 105 total flying hours, of which 25 were on the accident aircraft type. In the 90 days preceding the accident, the pilot had flown 22 hours, with 7 hours in the last 28 days.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was an EV-97 TeamEurostar UK, manufactured in 2007, powered by a single Rotax 912-UL piston engine.
Probable Cause
The accident report, submitted by the pilot, did not state a probable cause.