What happened
On 25 March 2020, a Glos-Aertourer 150, registration G-AXIX, was conducting a private flight from Shobdon Airport to a grass airstrip located near Almeley Wootton, Herefordshire. After an hour of local flying, the pilot attempted an approach to the north-westerly runway, where the wind was recorded at approximately 5 knots across the strip.
While the main wheels made contact with the runway, the aircraft began to oscillate in pitch as the nosewheel touched down. This motion caused the nosewheel to detach from the aircraft. Consequently, the propeller struck the ground, resulting in a sudden halt of the aircraft. The impact caused damage to the nosewheel, propeller, wing, and canopy. No injuries were sustained by the pilot or the passenger, and both occupants were able to egress the aircraft without assistance.
The investigation
Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the loss of the nosewheel. The pilot noted that the landing speed was slightly higher than anticipated due to the minimal headwind. In an effort to avoid landing too far down the short runway, the pilot had reduced the throttle slightly early, causing the aircraft to drop onto the runway surface.
Additionally, the investigation looked into the movement of unsecured items within the cabin. During the sudden deceleration, a fire extinguisher mounted at the rear of the baggage compartment became unfastened. The device moved forward, passing near the passenger's head before striking the windscreen.