What happened
On 19 August 2013, a Zenair CH 250 Zenith, registration G-RAYS, was conducting a private flight at Skegness Airfield in Lincolnshire. Upon arrival at the airfield, the pilot performed a circuit of the area. Prior to landing, the pilot observed the windsock, which indicated a wind direction 90 degrees to Runway 03. Although the pilot had initially considered Runway 29 to ensure an into-wind approach, they determined that the runway was too short for the aircraft and opted to land on Runway 03 instead.
The landing was initially successful, with the pilot experiencing a minor bump upon touchdown. Following this, the pilot utilized a technique of easing back on the power and control column. However, the aircraft then experienced a second, more significant bounce that caused the nose to rise several feet. In response to this movement, the pilot applied power to initiate a go-around. During this maneuver, the aircraft veered sharply to the left toward a line of trees and a hedge running parallel to the runway. The aircraft struck the vegetation and came to a stop, resulting in damage to the wings, propeller, landing gear, and canopy. There were no fatalities, though one passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of events surrounding the touchdown and the subsequent attempt to execute a go-around. The investigation looked into the pilot's decision-making regarding runway selection and the physical handling of the Zenair CH 250 Zenith during the unexpected bounce.