What happened
On 18 September 1999, a Grumman AA-5B, registration G-BDLR, was conducting a private flight at Luton Airport. The flight was intended to help the pilot-in-command gain necessary experience for certificate revalidation. During the flight, the aircraft performed several orbits in the circuit area before being cleared for final approach on Runway 08.
At the time of the approach, the wind was significant, with gusts reaching approximately 20 knots. As the aircraft approached the landing threshold, the tower controller observed the aircraft flying at a low height with the right wing dipped into the wind. During the landing roll, the aircraft experienced a marked left wing drop and yawed significantly to the left of the runway centerline. The aircraft left the paved surface and moved onto the grass.
Following the excursion, the aircraft appeared to accelerate and became airborne again, overflying a taxiway. It subsequently collided with the front right side of a parked Shorts 3 and 30, registration G-SSWU. The impact caused severe damage to both aircraft. The two occupants in the front seats and the passenger in the rear were killed; the pilot in the front left seat died later in the hospital.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage of both aircraft and analyzed the flight data and meteorological records. The investigation focused on the aircraft's handling during the high crosswind landing and the mechanical condition of the flight controls.
Engineers noted that the left aileron movement was restricted due to a deformed mass balance weight that had made contact with the runway surface. However, it was unclear if this restriction occurred before or after the initial wing strike. The investigation also reviewed the meteorological conditions, noting a complex frontal system was present, creating turbulence and strong crosswinds. The investigation found that the aircraft was within its allowable weight and center of gravity limits at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft was subjected to significant crosswind components and turbulence during the final approach.
- The aircraft left the paved runway surface and transitioned onto the grass during the landing roll.
- A go-around attempt was initiated after the aircraft had already veered off the runway.
- The aircraft struck a parked Shorts 330 with high power being applied to the engine.
- The aircraft's left wing tip had made contact with the runway surface, which may have contributed to the loss of control or the subsequent restriction of aileron movement.