AAIB investigation to JS-MD 3, G-JSMD

Loss of control during winch launch, Nympsfield Airfield, Gloucestershire, 15 June 2023

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 8 February 2024

• Category: Sport aviation and balloons
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 15 June 2023
• Aircraft type: JS-MD 3
• Location: Nympsfield Airfield, Gloucestershire
• Registration: G-JSMD

During a winch launch, the aircraft was seen to pitch up into a steep climb. The left wing then dropped, and the aircraft lost control and struck the ground. The pilot recalled little after the launch but believed he may have slid backwards in the seat during the launch.

The BGA have highlighted two safety areas around winch launching and ensuring adequate restraints prior to launch.

Download the report:

JS-MD 3, G-JSMD 02-24

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Published 8 February 2024