What happened
On 3 June 2023, an EAA Biplane, registration G-BPUA, was performing a private flight at Great Oakley Airfield in Essex. During the landing phase, the aircraft followed a stable approach but bounced to a height of roughly 6 feet while flaring. Seeking to improve his landing technique, the pilot elected to perform a go-around.
Upon application of full power, the aircraft experienced sluggish acceleration. The aircraft subsequently bounced two additional times, during which it began to climb while simultaneously veering to the right of the runway centerline. The main landing gear eventually struck crops in an adjacent field, causing the aircraft to come to rest in an inverted position. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, exited the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's performance and the circumstances leading to the loss of control. It was noted that the pilot had limited experience on this specific type, with only three hours previously flown on the model.
Technical assessments revealed that the Lycoming O-235-C engine may have been underperforming; a maintenance organization had previously estimated the output at approximately 100 hp, which is less than the rated 115 hp. Furthermore, the aircraft was operating near its maximum takeoff weight of 521 kg, with a calculated takeoff weight of 511 kg. The investigation also noted significant damage to the airframe, including the landing gear, wings, and fuselage tubes, as well as a shattered propeller and a shock-loaded engine.