What happened
On 23 April 2006, a Mainair Blade 912, registration G-CBGY, was conducting a private flight departing from Calton Moor airstrip. The flight was intended to last approximately ninety minutes, staying within a 20-mile radius of the departure point. During the return portion of the flight, the pilot decided to divert to New Mixon Hay Farm strip in Onecote, Leek, to take a break and observe an aircraft on the ground.
The pilot attempted an unplanned landing on strip 34. As the aircraft approached the landing site, it encountered a strong, gusting crosswind and turbulent air. At an altitude of roughly 50 feet, the left wing of the aircraft dipped sharply. The pilot attempted to correct the wing dip and apply power, but subsequently lost consciousness. The aircraft then struck a dry stone wall, causing severe damage to the trike and wing. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries, including broken limbs.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry examined the flight conditions and the pilot's decision-making process regarding the diversion to the farm strip. The investigation established that the pilot was aware of the challenging nature of the strip, which featured a steep rise in its initial section and was prone to crosswinds.
Findings
- The accident was caused by strong gusting crosswinds and disturbed air acting upon the aircraft.
- The pilot's relative inexperience in such challenging wind conditions contributed to the loss of control.
- The decision to proceed with the landing at the farm strip was noted as unwise, given that the landing was not essential for the flight's completion.