What happened
On 18 April 2010, a Reims Cessna F152, registration G-BMFZ, was performing a private flight at Bodmin Airfield in Cornwall. During the approach to Runway 13, the pilot utilized 40 degrees of flap. Just prior to touchdown, a strong gust of wind, estimated at 20 knots from behind the aircraft, occurred. This caused the aircraft to land approximately one-quarter of the way down the runway, become airborne again, and then touch down a second time near the intersection with Runway 03/21.
Upon the second touchdown, the pilot attempted to decelerate using heavy braking. However, the aircraft continued past the end of the runway, descending a steep slope toward a road. During the excursion, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to overturn onto its back. The pilot escaped the wreckage without assistance and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's airspeed indicator (ASI) after the pilot noted that the needle appeared to be at 0 knots during the critical moment of the gust. The investigation confirmed the ASI was functioning correctly and had no known faults.
Weather data from the Met Office at nearby Newquay Airport and Cardinham did not show significant gusts at the time of the accident, contradicting the pilot's perception of a 20-knot gust. Furthermore, the airfield manager's inspection of the runway surface showed no evidence of heavy braking marks. The aircraft sustained damage beyond economic repair.