What happened
During an approach to Lulsgate Airport, the crew operated under deteriorating weather conditions. While initial forecasts for nearby Filton were favorable, visibility at Lulsgate dropped to 1,200 meters during the descent. The aircraft began its approach on a right-hand base leg, initially drifting left of the extended centerline before regaining the track. As the descent continued, the pilot reported that visual references to the horizon and ground were lost below 650 feet due to mist and a thin cloud layer.
While descending through 300 feet, the pilot identified the approach lights to the left and initiated a turn to align with the runway. During this maneuver, the aircraft's airspeed was reduced from 130 knots to approximately 112 knots. Although the pilot briefly lost sight of the lights, they chose to continue the descent based on the last reported visibility. Upon regaining visual contact, the aircraft was positioned over the left side of the runway and was not properly aligned with the centerline.
As the pilot attempted to correct the alignment during the flare, the number 4 propeller and the starboard wingtip made contact with the runway surface. The aircraft touched down on all wheels with significant lateral drift. In an attempt to overshoot the runway and avoid buildings on the northern perimeter, the pilot applied full power and retracted the undercarriage. However, the aircraft failed to accelerate normally, leading to a ground loop to the right. The aircraft eventually struck a fence tail-first. The incident resulted in 10 injuries, with three classified as serious.
Findings
- The flight crew continued the approach after visual guidance was lost below the critical height.
- An attempt to realign the aircraft with the runway centerline at an insufficient altitude led to the initial contact with the runway surface.