What happened
On March 17, 2018, a Cessna Aircraft Company A185F, registration LN-NFD, was performing a private flight at Kjeller Airport (ENKJ) with the pilot and three passengers. The flight was returning from Vermundsjøen, and the approach to runway 30 was initially stable, utilizing three flaps at a speed of approximately 65 knots.
Immediately after touchdown, the aircraft began to veer toward the right side of the runway. Despite the pilot applying full opposite rudder and braking, the aircraft continued its deviation until the right main gear struck the snowbank at the edge of the runway. This impact triggered a rapid ground loop, causing the aircraft to rotate horizontally. During the maneuver, the aircraft tilted to the left, resulting in the horizontal stabilizer and the left wing striking the ground. All four occupants were able to exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the pilot's report and analyzed surveillance footage from web cameras located at the airport. The video confirmed the sequence of events, capturing the moment the right main wheel hit the snowbank and the subsequent rotation of the aircraft. The investigation also considered the aircraft's weight and balance, noting that the plane was heavily loaded with fuel and four occupants.
Findings
- The primary cause of the loss of control was the impact with the snowbank, which initiated the rotation.
- The aircraft's tailwheel configuration makes it inherently more difficult to maintain directional control compared to nosewheel aircraft, as the center of gravity is located behind the main gear.
- The pilot's limited experience with this specific aircraft type may have contributed to a delayed corrective response.
- The heavy load of the aircraft shifted the center of gravity further aft, which increased the tendency for the rotation to accelerate and made the aircraft more difficult to stabilize.