What happened
On 29 April 2006, a Gemini Flash IIA, registration G-MYJB, was performing a private flight from Aberporth to a landing strip in Talybont, Gwynedd. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and an 11-year-old passenger.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot attempted to utilize a perceived lull in the wind. Although the pilot had previously judged the wind to be primarily from the north, the conditions were characterized by strong, gusty, and variable winds. Shortly after reaching an altitude of approximately 25 feet, the aircraft was struck by a gust that caused the left wing to drop and the aircraft to yaw to the left.
As the aircraft climbed, the pilot became aware of rising terrain and nearby power cables. Fearing a stall if he attempted to turn away from the obstacles, the pilot opted for a forced landing in a patch of gorse. During this maneuver, another significant gust nearly stalled the aircraft, causing a loss of altitude and a violent turn toward a copse of trees. The aircraft struck the trees at an estimated speed of 30 to 40 mph at a height of 15 feet before falling to the ground. The impact resulted in one injury to the pilot, including a broken finger and bruised ribs, while the passenger sustained a bruised leg.
The investigation
The investigation examined the weather conditions at the Talybont airstrip, noting that wind direction was difficult to determine due to windsocks being positioned only 100 meters apart. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision-making process and the aircraft's mechanical state. It was noted that the engine remained at full power until the ignition was manually switched off. The wreckage analysis showed that the control bar and compression strut had shifted, pinning the pilot within the cockpit.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the encounter with severe wind gusts during the initial climb.
- The pilot's decision to take off in marginal, gusty conditions contributed to the loss of control.
- The presence of rising ground and power cables limited the pilot's ability to maneuver away from the trees.