What happened
On 25 December 2013, a modified Piper L18C Super Cub, registration G-RCUB, was returning to Tandragee Airfield in County Armagh following a brief local flight. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and one passenger.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot observed wind conditions that would necessitate a landing with a slight tailwind component. To avoid an approach over trees located at the opposite end of the runway, the pilot opted to land towards the north. During the final stages of the approach, the tailwind component increased unexpectedly. The pilot decided to abort the landing and initiate a go-around.
Footage recorded by the passenger indicates that the aircraft actually made contact with the runway and began a landing roll before the pilot applied full power. As the aircraft attempted to climb, it struck a lower line of trees near the runway. Shortly after, the aircraft collided with a second, taller line of trees, which caused it to lose momentum and drop to the ground in a nose-down position. The impact resulted in two serious injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances leading to the collision, including the airfield layout and the aircraft's weight. The investigation noted that the single gravel runway at Tandragee is approximately 400 metres long and features a slight upslope on the northern end.
Investigators reviewed the flight dynamics and the pilot's decision-making process regarding wind direction. It was established that the aircraft was operating near its maximum takeoff weight, being only 20 kg below the limit. The investigation also analyzed the sequence of the go-around, noting that the aircraft had touched the ground before the pilot transitioned to full power for the climb.