What happened
On October 15, 2020, a private flight involving a Boeing Stearman (registration LN-STM) was returning to Stavanger Airport Sola. The pilot and one passenger had been conducting a local flight via Bryne and decided to land due to dropping temperatures. After receiving clearance for runway 29, the pilot performed a landing approach using a close base to improve visibility, as the aircraft's cockpit design limits forward sightlines.
While the initial landing attempt was successful, the aircraft bounced slightly. During a subsequent, more forceful landing, the aircraft experienced an unexplained movement to the right, causing it to veer toward the edge of the runway. In an attempt to regain directional control, the pilot applied the brakes. This action caused the aircraft to tip over onto its back. Both occupants evacuated the aircraft without injury. Although smoke was observed from the engine, a fire truck arrived within ninety seconds to spray the aircraft as a precaution.
The investigation
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (NSIA) examined the sequence of events, including airport surveillance footage which captured the landing and subsequent capsize. The investigation looked into the aircraft's handling characteristics and the suitability of the runway surface for this specific type of vintage aircraft.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a sudden shift to the right immediately after the second touchdown.
- The pilot's decision to apply the brakes heavily to prevent the aircraft from exiting the runway perimeter directly triggered the capsize.
- The Boeing Stearman is a taildragger with a high center of gravity and a narrow track between the main wheels, making it inherently difficult to land on paved surfaces, particularly in crosswind conditions.
- The aircraft sustained a bent propeller, extensive damage to the tail section, and various damages to the wings, fuselage, and engine.
Safety action
- The investigation noted that landing this aircraft type would be safer on a grass runway, as the aircraft was originally designed for grass operations.
- While a grass runway previously existed at the airport, Avinor noted that establishing a new one would require significant regulatory updates and increased maintenance costs.