Hughes Light Wing, Not Registered, Goolwa SA, 16 December 1988

198800744

Summary

When the pilot departed the aerodrome the wind strength was reported to be 18 knots. However, by the time the pilot returned for a landing the wind strength had increased significantly with gusts reported to have reached 30 knots. The pilot landed the aircraft successfully, but as he started to taxi a wind gust caused the right wing to rise. The left wingtip then contacted the ground and the aircraft nosed down resulting in the propeller also striking the ground. The aircraft then pirouetted around the wingtip and somersaulted onto its back. The strong wind sprang up during the time the pilot was flying in the local training area. After landing the pilot was unable to attract the attention of persons who could have acted as wing walkers and despite having placed the control column in the full back and full right position, he was unable to prevent the right wing from rising. This accident was not the subject of a formal on-site investigation.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198800744
Occurrence date 16/12/1988
Location Goolwa
Report release date 11/01/1989
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Unknown
Model Hughes Light Wing
Registration Not registered
Serial number N/A AUF NO. - 25-0153
Operation type Sports Aviation
Departure point Goolwa SA
Destination Goolwa SA
Damage Substantial