What happened
On 26 December 2005, a Medway Eclipser Microlight, registration EI-CTC, was engaged in a private flight from Clonbullogue, Republic of Ireland, toward a private landing strip at Coalisland, Northern Ireland. During the flight, the pilot observed deteriorating weather conditions approximately 15 nautical miles south of the destination, noting a lowering cloud base and localized fog.
In response to the weather, the pilot elected to perform a precautionary landing in a nearby field. During the final stages of the approach to this field, the aircraft collided with telephone wires positioned along the edge of the landing area. The impact caused the aircraft to pitch nose-down into the ground. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries, though the aircraft suffered extensive damage.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot and assessed the environmental conditions at the time of the event. Local weather data indicated a north-east wind of 10 knots, a temperature of +2ºC, and visibility of 5 km, accompanied by low cloud and fog. The pilot's experience was noted as 294 total flying hours, with 137 hours specifically on the Medway Eclipser type.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to detect the telephone wires in time to take evasive action during the approach.
- The pilot suggested that the cold weather conditions may have contributed to slower reaction times.