What happened
On July 6, 2003, at approximately 10:30 h, a Fairchild R24, registration EC-GXP, was performing a private visual flight from Sabadelle Airport to Igualada Aerodrome. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and two passengers.
The landing approach proceeded normally with the aircraft configured in full flaps. However, upon touchdown, the tailwheel bounced off the asphalt surface. This impact caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the left. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying right rudder and differential braking. As the aircraft's speed decreased, the aerodynamic effectiveness of the rudder diminished, and the aircraft continued to drift left.
In an attempt to avoid colliding with parked aircraft, the pilot applied full power to increase airspeed and regain directional control through aerodynamic means. While this maneuver prevented a collision with the parked fleet, the pilot was unable to maintain the aircraft on the runway. The Fairchild R24 exited the left side of the runway, the wingtip struck the ground, and the aircraft subsequently overturned. All 3 occupants escaped the wreckage without injuries, though the aircraft sustained significant damage to the engine cowling, the wooden propeller, the vertical stabilizer, and the wings.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's statements, the aircraft's mechanical systems, and the sequence of events during the landing roll. The investigation focused on the effectiveness of the rudder and braking systems during the loss of control.
Technical analysis of the braking system revealed that the main gear brakes utilize an expandable tube design. It was noted that, based on previous flight records, these specific brakes have a tendency to lock up when used intensively. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's attempt to use full power to regain steering authority as the airspeed dropped.