What happened
On 3 March 2010, a Pegasus Quantum 15, registration G-MZJN, was conducting a training flight near Ilkeston, Derbyshire. The flight was performing standard procedures, including a join and circuit for Runway 19. During the glide approach, the wind was recorded at an east-southeast direction with speeds between 5 and 7 knots. This wind alignment positioned the touchdown point downwind of nearby farm buildings and a small wooded area.
As the student pilot began the flare maneuver, the aircraft's rate of descent failed to decrease. Despite the instructor's attempts to correct the situation by increasing pitch and applying full power, the aircraft continued its downward trajectory. The aircraft made heavy contact with the ground, resulting in damage to the nose section of the trike unit and the wing. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the flight conditions and the sequence of maneuvers leading to the impact. The investigation focused on the aircraft's behavior during the flare and the environmental conditions present at the time of the landing.