What happened
On 1 November 2008, a Pegasus Quik, registration G-CDML, was engaged in a private local flight over the Glenshee area. The flight involved three aircraft: one fixed-wing and two flex-wing types. The pilot of G-CDML was flying in excellent visibility and near-calm conditions, though the terrain was covered in snow.
During the flight, the pilot followed a lead flex-wing aircraft, maintaining a distance of roughly 40 metres. To maintain this separation at a low airspeed of approximately 55 knots, the pilot was flying at a relatively low altitude. While crossing the summit of the 3,800 ft mountain known as Glas Maol, the aircraft entered the wake vortex of the preceding aircraft. This turbulence pushed the aircraft toward the mountain. In an attempt to manoeuvre away, the left wheel of the aircraft struck the snow, causing the aircraft to cartwheel. The impact resulted in severe damage to the aircraft, though the pilot sustained no injuries due to the cushioning effect of the deep, soft snow.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight circumstances and the pilot's account of the event. The investigation established that the aircraft was flying at a low altitude over a flat-topped, snow-covered mountain. Witnesses, specifically hill walkers present on the plateau, observed the crash and assisted the pilot. The investigation confirmed that the weather was clear with minimal wind and high visibility at the time of the occurrence.