Accident Details
On 25 January 1998 at 1500 UTC, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration G-BHGC, year of manufacture 1969) was engaged in private flight at Keevil Airfield, Wiltshire. The aircraft was powered by one Lycoming O-320-A2B piston engine. The pilot, aged 38, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 218 hours of flying experience, of which 25 hours were on type. In the previous 90 days, he had flown 5 hours, with 3 hours in the last 28 days.
Sequence of Events
The surface wind was from 050° at 10 to 12 knots, and gliders were being launched from Runway 02. The tug aircraft landed after completing its fourth tow and was turning to backtrack to the launch point. The pilot applied brake on the wheel on the inside of the turn and selected about 1,500 RPM. He reported that, approximately 120° around the turn, a gust of wind from the rear quarter lifted the tail, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and the propeller to strike the runway. He closed the throttle and pulled back on the control column. The aircraft came to rest with the left wing tip, left main wheel, and propeller in contact with the runway.
Damage and Injuries
The propeller sustained damage and the engine was shock loaded. Other minor damage was noted. The pilot, who was wearing full upper torso restraint, was uninjured. He shut down the aircraft and vacated it via the normal access door.
Pilot Information
The commander was 38 years old and held a Private Pilot's Licence. His total flying experience was 218 hours, of which 25 were on the accident aircraft type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 5 hours, and in the last 28 days, 3 hours.