What happened
On 5 June 2016, a DR 107 One Design, registration G-CEPZ, was conducting a private cross-country flight from Thruxton to Membury Airfield. While performing the landing circuit for the grass Runway 13, the pilot approached the airfield on final approach. During this phase of flight, the pilot misidentified the actual runway threshold, mistakenly believing the runway began at the intersection with Runway 17/35.
This error resulted in a significantly reduced landing distance available. Upon touchdown, the pilot realized the mistake and noted the presence of trees and another stationary aircraft at the far end of the runway. To prevent an overrun, the pilot applied maximum braking. Due to the lightweight tail-dragger configuration of the aircraft, the intense braking force caused the aircraft to tip forward onto its nose. The impact caused the landing gear to collapse and resulted in damage to the propeller, main landing gear, main spar, and the underside of both wings. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's flight path and the circumstances surrounding the approach. It was established that the pilot's view of the runway threshold was obscured or distorted by the angle of approach. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's familiarity with the airfield and the visual characteristics of the runway layout.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the misidentification of the runway threshold.
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with Membury Airfield contributed to the error.
- The intersection of Runway 17/35 appeared more visually defined than the preceding section of the runway during the final approach.
- The application of maximum braking, while intended to avoid obstacles, triggered the nose-over due to the specific design characteristics of the aircraft.