What happened
On 27 February 2008, a Pegasus Quantum 15, registration G-CDHM, was conducting a private flight from Swansea airport to a new base at a private farm strip near Pentyrch. During the approach to the 300-metre grass runway, the pilot experienced gusty and variable wind conditions. Having previously performed two go-arounds, the pilot attempted a third approach, landing in the 070º direction.
The touchdown was fast and occurred more than halfway down the runway length, causing the aircraft to bounce. In an attempt to execute a go-around, the pilot applied full power; however, the aircraft lacked sufficient airspeed to climb. Consequently, the landing gear legs struck a 2-metre hedge at the end of the strip, causing the aircraft to flip onto its left side. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances of the landing and the wind conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation noted that the pilot had previously landed at this specific farm strip and had inspected the runway surface. Observations during the flight indicated that the wind direction had shifted from a westerly component to a more easterly direction by the time the aircraft reached the strip. An eyewitness corroborated the pilot's report that the wind was gusty and variable during the occurrence.
Findings
- The aircraft touched down with excessive speed and deep into the available runway length.
- A gusty tailwind contributed to the long and fast landing.
- The pilot's application of power following the bounce was not rapid enough to regain the necessary altitude to clear the obstacle at the runway end.