What happened
On 9 June 2017, a Colibri MB-2, registration EI-EWZ, was performing a local flight from ILAS Airfield in Taghmon, Co. Wexford. Shortly after takeoff, while the aircraft was at approximately 300 feet, the cockpit canopy unexpectedly opened. Although the pilot managed to pull the canopy closed, the locking mechanism failed to secure it, forcing the pilot to use his right hand to hold the canopy shut throughout the flight.
Operating the aircraft with only one hand available for the flight controls, the pilot completed a standard circuit to return to the airfield. During the final approach, the aircraft flared slightly too high, resulting in a hard landing. The impact caused the left wheel to detach from the undercarriage and led to the propeller striking the ground, which broke both blades. The aircraft subsequently swiveled 120 degrees before coming to a stop. The pilot, the sole occupant, escaped without injury.
The investigation
AAIU investigators examined the aircraft and the landing site at ILAS Airfield. The investigation confirmed that the pilot had performed all necessary pre-flight checks, including a specific check of the canopy lock, prior to departure. Upon inspection, the canopy locking mechanism was found to be fully functional, and there was no evidence of any pre-existing mechanical issues with the aircraft.
Findings
- The sudden opening of the canopy likely caused a startle effect, complicating aircraft control.
- The pilot's need to manually hold the canopy shut left only one hand available to operate the stick and throttle.
- Difficulties in aircraft control due to the single-handed operation led to a high flare and a subsequent hard landing.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including a cracked wing rib, broken propeller blades, and damage to both wheel shock absorbers.