What happened
On 26 December 2004, a Reims Cessna FA1s2, registration G-BHEN, was participating in a flour bombing and spot landing competition at Leicester Airport. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and one passenger. Following delays in the competition schedule, the pilot attempted a left-hand circuit and approach for Runway 28, aiming for a specific spot landing target.
During the approach, the aircraft drifted away from the extended runway centerline. The pilot failed to realize the deviation, likely due to the low light levels from the setting sun. The aircraft touched down approximately 60 metres north of the paved runway surface. The main wheels entered a series of ruts, created by recent agricultural activity, which were filled with ice. After rolling for about 25 metres within these ruts, the nose landing gear collapsed. The aircraft then slowly pitched forward and came to rest in an inverted position. There were no injuries to the occupants.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the environmental conditions and the pilot's perception of the landing area. Investigators noted that sunset had occurred shortly before the accident, and official nightfall was imminent. The presence of icy ruts parallel to the runway edge was a critical factor, as these features were visually indistinguishable from the runway surface in the fading light. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision-making regarding the continuation of the competition despite the deteriorating visibility.