What happened
On 11 November 2012, a Gemini Flash IIA, registration G-MWWK, was involved in an accident at Redlands Airfield, Swindon. The aircraft, powered by a single Rotax 582-2V engine, was being operated for private purposes. During the incident, the pilot was engaged in ground-based activities when the aircraft lost stability and tipped onto its left side, resulting in the left wing collapsing. The aircraft sustained damage that was deemed beyond economic repair. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined two conflicting accounts provided by the pilot regarding the sequence of events. Initially, the pilot informed investigators that he had been following another aircraft during a landing sequence. He reported that the preceding aircraft unexpectedly performed a go-around, causing G-MWWK to enter the propeller wash of the lead aircraft. This turbulence allegedly caused the pilot to lose control, leading to the aircraft tipping over.
However, a subsequent account provided by the pilot described a different set of circumstances. In this version, the pilot stated he was taxiing and performing ground manoeuvres when a gust of wind lifted the right wing. He reported that the left wing subsequently struck tall grass at the edge of the taxiway. The pilot further stated that his attempt to brake the aircraft sharply resulted in the accidental depression of the foot throttle, which contributed to the aircraft tipping onto its left side.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage beyond economic repair.
- The pilot provided inconsistent accounts regarding whether the incident was caused by the propeller wash of a preceding aircraft or by a combination of wind gusts and accidental throttle application during taxiing.