AAIB investigation to Rans S6-ES, G-BZKO
Rans S6-ES (G-BZKO), windscreen and skylight assemblies shattered in-flight, near Newtownards Airport, County Down, 26 February 2024
The examiner landed the aircraft successfully after the windscreen and skylight assemblies shattered and detached in flight. The cause was not determined but photographs indicated that the skylight installation did not comply with the aircraft build manuals. There is no definitive link between this anomaly and the failure, but this accident is a good reminder to be prepared for the unexpected and to concentrate on maintaining control of the aircraft.
The Light Aircraft Association (LAA) will publish an article highlighting the effects of startle and the need to comply with aircraft manufacturer’s construction drawings and assembly methods.
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