Microlight Overturns During Training Landing at Eshott Airfield

Casualties unknown • Eshott Airfield, Northumberland, GB

A Gemini Flash IIA microlight experienced a sudden roll and overturn during a training flight at Eshott Airfield, resulting in significant wing damage.

What happened

On 13 July 2013, a Gemini Flash IIA, registration G-MVXB, was conducting a training flight at Eshott Airfield in Northumberland. The weather conditions at the time of the incident were clear, with a surface wind originating from 090° at 10 knots.

During the flight, the student pilot executed a standard approach and landing on Runway 08. As the aircraft decelerated, the student attempted to steer the aircraft to the left to vacate the runway. During this maneuver, the aircraft experienced a sharp leftward steering movement, which caused it to roll to the right and subsequently overturn. While the aircraft sustained damage, specifically a wing that was destroyed beyond repair, there were no injuries to the two crew members on board.

The investigation

The investigation examined the mechanics of the steering system and the physical movement of the crew during the landing roll. It was established that the instructor's right foot became wedged between the right side of the fuselage and the rear steering control. This entrapment prevented the student pilot from being able to return the steering mechanism to its central position.

Probable cause

The aircraft rolled and overturned because the instructor's foot became stuck in the steering control, preventing the student from centering the steering during a left-hand turn.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-07-13 Gemini Flash IIA accident near Eshott Airfield, Northumberland, GB?

A Gemini Flash IIA microlight experienced a sudden roll and overturn during a training flight at Eshott Airfield, resulting in significant wing damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-07-13 involved a Gemini Flash IIA, registration G-MVXB, at Eshott Airfield, Northumberland, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft rolled and overturned because the instructor's foot became stuck in the steering control, preventing the student from centering the steering during a left-hand turn.

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