What happened
On August 1, 2021, a Diamond DA20-C1, registration EC-LNK, operated by Aeroclub de Reus, was performing a local flight at Reus Airport (LERS) in Tarragona, Spain. The aircraft, carrying a single pilot, was on final approach to runway 25 under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
During the landing phase, the aircraft touched down on its main gear but immediately bounced. The pilot attempted to manage the aircraft's attitude, but the aircraft subsequently descended in a nose-down attitude. Upon impact with the runway, the nose gear collapsed, causing the propeller and the lower forward section of the fuselage to strike the pavement. The aircraft slid approximately 20 meters before coming to a halt. The pilot was uninjured and able to egress the aircraft on his own.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation analyzed GPS flight data, radar tracks, and airport surveillance footage. The investigation examined the aircraft's flight manual, which specifies an approach speed of 55 KIAS with landing flaps or 60 KIAS with takeoff flaps.
Data analysis revealed that the pilot maintained an approach speed significantly higher than recommended. Throughout the initial approach, the ground speed was approximately 80 knots; accounting for a 5-knot headwind, the indicated airspeed was roughly 85 knots. During the final stage of the approach, the speed remained approximately 12 knots above the manual's specified limits. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training records and the operator's internal safety review.
Findings
- The pilot conducted the approach at a speed exceeding the limits defined in the aircraft flight manual.
- The approach speed during the final phase and landing was approximately 12 knots above the recommended value.
- A bounce occurred during the landing maneuver, leading to a subsequent nose-down impact.
- The incorrect execution of the landing maneuver, specifically the excessive speed during the approach and the subsequent recovery attempt after the bounce, was the primary cause of the accident.