What happened
On 5 August 2017, a Piper PA-18-150, registration EC-JBP, was performing aerial advertising work at Sabadell Airport (LELL) in Spain. After completing a banner-towing flight, the pilot attempted to land on runway 13. During the initial short final approach, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The pilot attempted a go-around, but the aircraft's main landing gear struck the runway with excessive force before the aircraft could regain altitude.
Following the initial contact, the pilot performed a fly-by of the control tower to allow ground personnel to visually inspect the gear. Finding no obvious issues, the pilot proceeded with a second landing attempt. Approximately 70 meters after touchdown, the left main landing gear leg collapsed. This caused the left wingtip to strike the ground, and the aircraft dragged for about 30 meters along the runway. The aircraft eventually veered into the parterre and struck the asphalt of a runway exit, causing the nose to dig in and the tail to rise.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the wreckage, airport security footage, and the pilot's statements. Analysis of the aircraft's maintenance records showed that the aircraft was well-maintained and that the shock cords had been replaced in 2011. The investigation also reviewed the engine performance, ruling out engine failure as a cause for the pilot's perceived lack of power during the go-around, noting that the engine functioned normally during subsequent flight patterns.
Security camera footage confirmed the sudden drop in altitude during the first approach and documented the aircraft's path on the ground during the gear collapse. Physical examination of the wreckage revealed that a specific component of the landing gear had failed under the stress of the initial impact.
Findings
- The pilot held a valid commercial license and medical certificate.
- The aircraft was properly maintained according to manufacturer specifications.
- The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude during the first approach segment.
- The landing gear hit the runway hard, which was the primary driver of the failure.
- The left main landing gear leg collapsed due to a fractured lug on the long segment of the strut, which prevented the shock cords from properly supporting the gear structure.
- The aircraft sustained significant damage to the propeller, left wingtip, and left main gear leg.