What happened
On 17 November 2015, a Europa aircraft, registration G-BWJH, was performing training circuits at Perth (Scone) Airfield. The flight was being conducted by a pilot accompanied by an instructor, with the objective of regaining flying currency and preparing for a requalification competence test.
During the session, the pilot performed two initial approaches that were deemed too high, resulting in two go-arounds. Following a demonstration of correct technique by the instructor, the pilot took control for a subsequent approach. Although the aircraft was in the proper landing configuration, the aircraft bounced twice upon touchdown. In response to the bounces, the pilot applied full power to initiate a go-around. During this maneuver, the left wing dropped and the wingtip made contact with the runway. The aircraft then slewed toward the left and came to a stop on the soft grass at the runway edge. The impact caused the nose landing gear to collapse and resulted in a propeller strike, as well as damage to the underside of the fuselage, the left aileron, and the wingtip. There were no injuries to the crew.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight history and the pilot's recent flying experience. It was noted that while the pilot possessed approximately 650 total flying hours, his recent activity was very low, with only one hour of flight time recorded in the preceding 90 days and minimal flying in the 28 days prior to the accident. The investigation also reviewed the mechanical state of the aircraft and the sequence of the landing attempt.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the left wing stalling following the second bounce during the landing attempt.
- The pilot's lack of recent flying currency contributed to the mishandling of the landing.
- The application of full power for the go-around was unable to prevent the wing drop due to the aerodynamic state of the aircraft after the bounces.