What happened
On 31 May 2004, a Mainair Blade 912, registration G-BZTU, departed from a 300-metre grass airstrip in Waldringfield, Suffolk, for a private flight. The initial departure was unremarkable until the aircraft reached approximately 200 feet above ground level, where a gust of wind caused the left wing to drop. The pilot performed a significant control correction to stabilize the aircraft. Attributing the disturbance to local thermal activity, the pilot chose to divert to a larger, unobstructed nearby grass strip.
Following an unevent and successful landing at the alternative site, the pilot inspected the aircraft. Observing that the wind had subsided to a light easterly breeze, the pilot decided to return to the original departure airfield. During the second takeoff attempt, the aircraft climbed normally to about 80 feet. However, the aircraft then entered a steep left bank and descended rapidly. Despite efforts to recover, the aircraft struck a potato field approximately 100 metres from the start of the runway. The impact resulted in extensive damage to the aircraft and left both the pilot and the passenger with serious injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the aircraft's condition, and local meteorological conditions. Investigators noted that the pilot had 56 hours of flight experience, all on this specific type. While the pilot initially suspected thermal activity caused the first wing drop, evidence from a local farmer provided additional context. The farmer, located near a nearby barn, reported that a powerful southerly gust had occurred around the time of the accident, possessing enough force to loosen roof sheets from his building.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a sudden, steep bank and descent during the climb phase of the second takeoff.
- A strong southerly wind gust was identified as the primary cause of the loss of control.
- The aircraft struck the ground in a wings-level attitude, despite the pilot's attempts at corrective action.