What happened
On 1 July 2009, a Gemini Flash 2A microlight, registration G-MWMS, was involved in an accident at Park Hall Country Park near Weston Coyney. The pilot, who had experience in three-axis aircraft but had not undergone specific training for flexwing controls, intended to perform a short series of taxi maneuvers in a recently mown field.
After assembling the aircraft with assistance, the pilot taxied across the field. During a second takeoff attempt, the aircraft accelerated and became airborne approximately halfway down the available runway. The aircraft initially climbed steeply before turning right toward a nearby golf course. As the aircraft descended, it lost altitude and impacted a steep embankment near the third green of the golf course. The impact resulted in serious injuries to the pilot, who was subsequently treated by an air ambulance.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the engine, finding no evidence of structural failure or incorrect rigging. The Rotax 503 engine was tested on a rig and found to be in satisfactory working order; evidence suggested the engine was rotating at the moment of impact. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training records and the suitability of the takeoff site.
Findings
- The pilot had not completed the required differences training to transition from three-axis to flexwing control logic.
- The pilot's fixed-wing flying recency had expired, and he had no recent experience in the aircraft type.
- The takeoff occurred on a downward slope of approximately 6%, which may have contributed to the aircraft becoming airborne unexpectedly.
- The pilot's lack of experience with the unique control inputs of a flexwing aircraft likely led to the loss of control during the maneuver.