What happened
On 1 June 2020, a Hawker Hurricane 1, registration G-HRLI, was returning to Duxford Airfield following a brief maintenance flight. As the pilot approached the grass Runway 06, a crosswind from the right was present. The pilot attempted a landing by approaching at an angle to account for the wind, but upon touchdown, the aircraft experienced a slight bounce and began an uncommanded turn to the right.
As the aircraft slowed, the pilot applied the brakes to maintain direction, but the reduction in rudder effectiveness made control difficult. A significant bounce occurred, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and lift the tailwheel off the ground. At a speed of approximately 20 mph, the left and then the right landing gear collapsed. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, exited the aircraft uninjured.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the aircraft and the site, finding no evidence of mechanical defects in the landing gear or the airframe. The investigation noted that the runway surface was hard, dry, and somewhat bumpy. Analysis of the pilot's recent flying history revealed a lack of recent experience on the Hurricane type, having flown a weight-shift microlight and a Pitts Special shortly before the accident. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's center of gravity, which was found to be within permitted limits.
Findings
- The crosswind during the landing phase induced an initial turn to the right.
- The aircraft's landing technique involved a tail-low attitude that was slightly too fast for a three-point landing, leading to a bounce.
- The application of brakes and the lack of tail-down elevator input contributed to the aircraft pitching forward and the tail lifting.
- The aircraft's momentum and the hard runway surface caused it to slide sideways, creating side loads that exceeded the design limits of the landing gear.
- The pilot's recent flying in different aircraft types may have affected the appropriateness of the control inputs used during the landing roll.