What happened
On 2 May 2009, a Thruster T600N 450, registration G-CBIP, was conducting a private flight from Deanland Airfield in Sussex to Popham Airfield in Hampshire. The purpose of the flight was to attend a microlight aircraft show.
Upon arriving at Popham, the pilot joined the circuit pattern for the grass Runway 21. The airfield was experiencing high levels of activity, with a significant number of other aircraft present. During the final approach, the pilot intentionally reduced airspeed in an effort to maintain separation from another aircraft positioned ahead on the approach path.
Once the preceding aircraft had landed and vacated the runway, the pilot continued the approach. However, due to the previously reduced speed, the aircraft failed to maintain sufficient energy for a smooth touchdown. The resulting heavy landing caused damage to the 'A' frame and the fibreglass fairing. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the pilot's actions during the approach and the environmental conditions at the airfield. The investigation established that the pilot's attention was diverted by the high volume of traffic in the circuit. The pilot acknowledged that while the aircraft ahead had cleared the runway, he failed to initiate a go-around despite the loss of airspeed.