What happened
Prior to departure from Guernsey, the pilot in command noted that approaching crosswind conditions would be near the operational limits of the aircraft type. The initial flight to Southampton was completed with moderate turbulence encountered during the climb phase.
On the return leg from Southampton, carrying 50 passengers and 2 kg of cargo, the crew monitored deteriorating weather. During the approach to runway 27, the pilot in command opted for a reduced flap setting of 26.5° and an increased target threshold speed to maintain better control in the wind. The first approach was unstable, with the aircraft drifting significantly and crossing the threshold above the glide path, prompting a go-around.
A second approach was attempted. While the crew maintained the correct height and touchdown point, the aircraft appeared to float during the flare. The aircraft touched down beyond the standard landing area, with the left main gear making contact first. On the ground, the pilot applied heavy braking and rudder to maintain direction against a strong crosswind. Approximately 16 seconds into the roll, the aircraft began an uncontrolled left turn. The crew issued a Mayday call before the aircraft exited the paved surface, crossed an earth bank, and came to a stop in a nearby field at an estimated speed of 60 kt.
Findings
- The pilot in command chose to proceed with the landing despite recognizing that the touchdown point was beyond the normal area.
- At the moment of touchdown, the pilot was unaware that the crosswind component had exceeded the limits specified in the Flight Manual.
- The crew was unable to apply simultaneous maximum braking to both main gears while attempting to maintain directional control through rudder and differential braking.