What happened
On 29 May 2011, a Thruster T600N aircraft, registration G-KIPP, was performing an air experience flight when it encountered unexpected turbulence. While on final approach to Runway 26 at Compton Abbas Airfield, the aircraft was flying at 50 kt IAS with the left aileron applied. The wind conditions were reported as 250 degrees at approximately 12 knots.
During the descent to 20 ft above the runway, the aircraft was hit by a sudden gust of wind. This caused the aircraft to lose altitude while rolling to the right. The aircraft bounced heavily onto the runway, resulting in a puncture to the right mainwheel. As the pilot applied full power, the nosewheel struck the top of a hedge. The aircraft subsequently came to rest inverted in a field located roughly 10 metres beyond the hedge line.
Following the impact, the pilot deactivated the ignition switch, battery isolator, and fuel valve. Although fuel was observed leaking from the left wing's filler cap, the pilot and passenger were able to exit the aircraft with the help of a nearby club member. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of events leading to the loss of height and the subsequent impact with the hedge. The investigation established that the aircraft suffered damage to the fuselage, wings, rudder, and landing gear, and that the engine had been shock-loaded during the event.