What happened
On 5 November 2006, a Jodel D112, registration G-BHKT, was performing a private flight at Clipgate Farm, Denton, Canterbury. During the final approach to Runway 20, the pilot noted the aircraft was approximately 50 ft below the standard approach altitude and responded by increasing engine power to correct the descent path.
As the aircraft crossed a wooded area, it encountered sinking air. The pilot reacted to this turbulence with a further increase in power, which caused the airspeed to rise to 5 an unexpected 55 kt, exceeding the normal approach speed by 10 kt. The aircraft touched down one third of the way down the runway at 50 kt.
Following the touchdown, the pilot initially applied brakes, believing the remaining runway length was sufficient to stop. However, upon realizing the aircraft would not stop in time, the pilot attempted a go-around by applying full power. The aircraft failed to become fully airborne and instead struck the airfield boundary hedge at high speed. The aircraft eventually came to rest inverted in a nearby field. The pilot sustained minor injuries, including bruising and mild concussion, and was able to exit the wreckage through a hole in the damaged canopy.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The inquiry examined the flight path, the pilot's responses to atmospheric conditions, and the sequence of aerodynamic changes leading to the excursion. The investigation established that the pilot's decision-making regarding the go-around was a critical factor in the outcome.