What happened
On 7 May 2001, a Rans S6-ES, registration G-BZGR, was conducting a private flight from Long Marston Airfield. The pilot intended to land at Hardwick Farm Strip in Norfolk, a grass-surfaced landing site measuring roughly 450 metres in length and 30 metres in width. The left boundary of this strip was marked by a hedge and a ditch.
During the approach, the pilot estimated the surface wind to be from 360° at 3 to 8 knots. While the initial touchdown was described as normal, the aircraft began to veer toward the left side of the strip. In an attempt to correct the direction, the pilot applied right rudder; however, the left wing tip struck the hedge, causing the aircraft to swing into the vegetation. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained damage to its landing gear, cockpit, and left wing.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the circumstances of the landing at the farm strip and the aircraft's behavior following touchdown. The pilot, who possessed a Private Pilots Licence and significant flying experience, was well-acquainted with the specific characteristics of the Hardwick Farm Strip.