What happened
On 14 October 2007, a Pegasus Quantum 15-912, registration G-CCWO, was performing a private flight at Plaistows Farm, Hertfordshire. During the approach to the grass runway 33, the aircraft experienced a rightward drift shortly before touching down. The pilot attempted to initiate a go-around; however, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient altitude to climb away. Upon landing, the aircraft moved toward the left-hand edge of the runway and entered an adjacent ploughed field, where it came to a stop in an upright position. The impact resulted in damage to the wingspar, sail, nosewheel, and pod. The pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and the pilot's handling of the aircraft. At the time of the incident, visibility was good, and the surface wind was recorded at 240º/3 kt. The investigation reviewed the aircraft's operational limits, noting that while the operator's manual specifies a maximum crosswind component of 10 mph, it recommends a reduced limit of 5 mph for pilots with fewer than 10 to 100 hours of experience on this specific type. The pilot, who had 64 total flying hours with only 4 hours on the type, had previously sought instructional assistance regarding landing techniques.
Findings
- The aircraft drifted right during the final approach due to a gentle crosswind from the left.
- The pilot was unable to execute a successful go-around before touchdown.
- The uncorrected crosswind component caused the aircraft to drift right of the runway centerline and subsequently induce a left turn upon touchdown.