What happened
On 15 August 2013, a Maule MT-7-235 Super Rocket, registration G-HIND, was conducting a private flight when the pilot decided to divert from the intended destination of Perth Airport to a friend's private airstrip in County Durham due to diminishing daylight.
As the aircraft approached the private strip, the pilot observed sheep positioned near the runway threshold. Although the pilot initially believed there was enough runway length to complete the landing, the livestock moved further down the runway during the final approach. This prompted the pilot to initiate a go-around procedure.
During the maneuver, the pilot turned the aircraft into the wind. This direction of turn led the aircraft toward rising terrain. Consequently, the aircraft struck the upper foliage of several trees, resulting in dents to the leading edges of both wings. Following the impact, the pilot successfully navigated to Durham Tees Valley Airport, where the aircraft landed without further issues.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry examined the sequence of events leading to the contact with the trees and noted that the pilot experienced no significant handling difficulties following the impact. The investigation also highlighted the inherent risks of operating at unlicensed aerodromes where livestock may be present, referencing CAA guidance regarding the necessity of ensuring runways are clear of animals prior to landing.