What happened
On July 7, 2000, a Mooney aircraft, registration ZS-OEG, was completing a scenic flight when it returned to Kitty Hawk. As the pilot prepared to land on Runway 01, a sudden and intense gust of wind from behind struck the aircraft, physically lifting the tail section.
Faced with an overrun risk due to the lack of remaining runway and the presence of power lines immediately ahead of the aircraft, the pilot attempted to execute a go-around. During this maneuver, the pilot applied full power; however, the aircraft was unable to establish a positive rate of climb. Consequently, the pilot performed a forced landing in an open field located approximately 500 meters from the runway threshold, to the left of the extended centerline. While the aircraft sustained extensive damage, there were no injuries to the pilot or the two passengers on board.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the landing attempt and the subsequent failure to climb. The investigation focused on the meteorological conditions at the time of the incident and the pilot's decision-making process regarding the go-around maneuver. The inquiry established that the weather was otherwise fine, but the specific wind event was the primary catalyst for the loss of control during the landing phase.
Findings
- A sudden, severe tailwind gust caused the aircraft's tail to lift during the landing roll.
- The pilot's decision to initiate a go-around was prompted by the insufficient runway remaining and the proximity of overhead power lines.
- The aircraft failed to achieve a positive rate of climb despite the application of full power, leading to the forced landing.