What happened
On 29 May 2012, a Tanarg/iXess 15 912s, registration G-TEAS, was performing a private flight departing from Calton Moor Airfield in Derbyshire. The weather at the time of the departure was clear, with a light south-westerly surface wind and a temperature of 21°C. The pilot noted the presence of thermic conditions.
During the initial climb, once the aircraft had reached an altitude of approximately 80 ft, the aircraft experienced a stall. The left wing dropped, causing the microlight to enter a spiral descent toward the ground. The aircraft sustained extensive damage upon impact. The pilot, who was secured with a lap strap, sustained serious leg and internal injuries. The passenger, who was wearing both a lap strap and a diagonal harness, was uninjured. Both occupants were wearing protective helmets at the time of the accident.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the flight conditions and the aircraft's weight configuration, noting that the aircraft was operating near its maximum takeoff weight.