What happened
On 3 July 1999, a Pitts S-1D, registration G-BKVP, was performing a private flight at Leicester Airport. The aircraft landed on Runway 28 under conditions where the surface wind was recorded at 240°/15 to 20 kt.
During the landing roll, a sudden gust of wind caused the left wing to lift. This movement resulted in the right wingtip making contact with the runway surface. Following this impact, the tailwheel castoured, leading to a loss of steering control. The aircraft subsequently veered to the left, causing the left wingtip to also strike the runway. The aircraft eventually came to a stop on the left side of the runway in a nose-down position. The pilot, who was secured by a five-point harness, was able to exit the aircraft without sustaining any injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination of the aircraft's condition following the event revealed that the wooden propeller had broken and there was minor damage to the wing tip and aileron. No fatalities or injuries were reported.