Jodel D117, G-AWWI, 14 October 2012

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 14 October 2012
• Aircraft type: Jodel D117
• Location: Rhigos Airfield, 7 nm west of Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales
• Registration: G-AWWI

Jodel D117, G-AWWI

Summary:

The aircraft was landing at Rhigos Airfield, a site used primarily for gliding activities with a single gravel runway about 730 m long and 6 m wide. The runway was orientated 08/26. Weather conditions were good, with an estimated surface wind from 300° at 4 kt.

The pilot flew a normal approach and touchdown in the easterly direction but, after a short ground roll, the left main wheel contacted the grass verge, causing the aircraft to deviate to the left and to leave the runway. The ground was soft after recent heavy rain and the main wheels sank in, creating furrows. Although the aircraft was by this time heading back towards the runway and slowing down, the main wheels encountered softer ground and dug in, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and come to rest inverted. The canopy frame was crushed, but the pilot was able to release himself from his harness and vacate the aircraft through the passenger door after making switches safe.

Download report:

Jodel D117 G-AWWI 01-13.pdf (176.07 kb)

Published 10 December 2014