What happened
On 21 July 2012, a Pegasus Quantum 15 Quantum, registration G-MZBB, was conducting a private flight from a farm strip at Kingsmuir to Fife Airport. Approximately five miles into the 20-mile journey, the aircraft's engine suddenly ceased operation.
The pilot attempted to maneuver the microlight toward a field for an into-wind landing. However, while at an altitude of roughly 25 feet, the aircraft encountered a downdraft. During this descent, the pilot observed a line of electrical cables positioned ahead of the flight path. The aircraft struck the cables, which resulted in the wires breaking.
The aircraft subsequently descended rapidly and rolled onto its left side upon impact with the ground at Pilgrims Field, Lathones. While there were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, the aircraft sustained significant damage to the wing, the pod, and the monopole.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the damage to the aircraft, noting that the forward flying wires had been severed during the collision with the electrical infrastructure. At the time of the report, the specific cause for the initial engine stoppage remained undetermined.