What happened
On 7 April 2013, an Ikarus C42 FB100, registration G-FLYB, was conducting a private flight from Old Sarum Airfield to Perranporth Airfield in Cornwall. The weather conditions were clear, though a surface wind of 15 knots from 150° was noted with gusty characteristics.
As the pilot entered the circuit for Runway 09 via the downwind leg, the presence of turbulence and gusty winds led to the decision to use a reduced flap setting for the approach. Due to a significant crosswind component, the pilot utilized a ‘wing down’ technique during the final approach. Just before touchdown, the aircraft entered a stall and impacted the runway surface. Although the pilot attempted to initiate a go-around, the aircraft rolled and veered to the left, eventually coming to rest adjacent to the runway threshold.
The impact caused extensive damage to the engine, propeller, landing gear, and the right wing. The pilot escaped without injury, while one passenger sustained a minor head injury that required local treatment by a paramedic.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the flight conditions, the aircraft's configuration, and the sequence of events leading to the loss of control. The pilot's assessment indicated that the primary factor was the impact of strong, gusty wind conditions during the landing phase.