What happened
On 15 June 2013, a P and M Aviation Quik GT450, registration G-CFWJ, was conducting a private flight when the pilot performed a precautionary landing in a stubble field approximately one mile north of Hart, County Durham. The pilot landed in a south-westerly direction, utilizing a west wind of approximately 15-20 mph.
Following the touchdown, the pilot attempted to turn the aircraft to follow a planned route. During this taxiing maneuver, the windward wing rose, causing the aircraft to topple onto its left side. The incident resulted in damage to the trike pod, the hang bolt, and the hang bracket. No injuries were sustained by the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of the landing and the subsequent taxiing maneuver in the presence of crosswind conditions. The pilot noted that the ground roll itself was normal, but the instability occurred during the turn.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in a west wind of 15-20 mph.
- The pilot failed to sufficiently restrain the upwind wing during the turn.
- The pilot acknowledged that the wing should have been held lower to prevent the aircraft from toppling.