What happened
On 22 August 2008, a Maule M5-235C Lunar Rocket, registered G-RAIN, was performing a private flight in Somerset. While approaching the airstrip at Perrow Farm, the pilot intentionally maintained a low and slow airspeed. During this approach, the aircraft struck a bank located at the boundary ditch of the airstrip. This impact, combined with a sudden gust of tailwind, caused the aircraft to pitch nose-down. The aircraft entered an uncontrollable descent into the obstacle and eventually came to rest in an inverted position approximately 50 metres beyond the initial impact site. There was no fire following the accident.
The investigation
The investigation examined the circumstances of the approach and the physical impact with the terrain. It was established that the pilot was aware of the low altitude and speed during the final stages of the flight. The crew consisted of one pilot and one passenger. While the pilot was able to exit the cabin door without injury, the passenger required assistance to be removed from the aircraft and sustained serious injuries.
Findings
- The aircraft struck a bank at the edge of the airstrip ditch.
- A nose-down pitch was induced by the impact with the bank and a gust of tailwind.
- The aircraft's position upon landing was inverted.