What happened
On August 6, 2024, a pilot operating under a PPL(A) license was performing a ferry flight in a VIPER SD-4 from EPJG to Ostrów Wielkopolski (EPOM). The flight commenced at 11:44 UTC under favorable meteorological conditions. During the landing phase, the pilot executed a low-profile approach, resulting in a three-point touchdown that led to a bounce on the runway surface.
In an attempt to correct the bounce, the pilot applied elevator input by pulling the controls toward themselves. This maneuver caused the aircraft to settle heavily on the nose gear, which subsequently collapsed. The forward section of the aircraft impacted the runway surface. The pilot sustained no injuries, but the aircraft sustained damage significant enough to require manufacturer-level repairs.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing flare and the pilot's corrective actions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot tested negative for alcohol consumption. The inquiry examined the flight profile and the mechanical response of the landing gear during the impact.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a pilot error in flight technique, specifically an improper reaction to the aircraft bouncing on the runway.
- A low-profile approach contributed to the initial bounce.
- The pilot's limited experience was a contributing factor to the incorrect recovery maneuver.