What happened
On 23 June 2010, a Pioneer 200-M, registration G-WEFR, was performing a private flight at Knockbain Farm Airstrip in Ross-shire. The pilot elected to land on Runway 26, which features a 6% upslope for the initial 100 metres, followed by a level section and a 3% downslope for the final 450 metres of the 650-metre grass strip.
Upon touchdown on the level portion of the runway, the aircraft began to veer toward the right side of the strip. Approximately 200 metres from the end of the runway, the aircraft left the prepared surface and entered the grass area. The aircraft then collided with two unmanned, parked aircraft—Aerotechnik EV-97 Eurostar G-VORN and Aerotechnik EV-97 Eurostar G-ZZAC—located on the apron near the runway centreline. The collision occurred at an estimated speed of 15-20 mph before the aircraft came to a halt.
While the pilot initially appeared unhurt and was able to secure the aircraft, he was later diagnosed with broken ribs, resulting in a serious injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the runway characteristics and environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The weather was reported as CAVOK (cloud and visibility OK) with a light southerly wind. The grass surface of the runway was noted to be wet due to recent rainfall.
The investigation also assessed the damage to the three aircraft involved. The G-WEFR sustained damage to its fuselage, propeller, and left wing. The G-VORN suffered damage to its cowling, propeller, and left wing, while the G-ZZAC sustained damage to its right wing.
Findings
- The aircraft veered off the runway due to the combination of the runway downslope and the wet grass surface.
- The collision occurred when the aircraft struck two stationary aircraft on the apron.