Accident Overview
The pilot of an Ikarus C42 FB80, registration G-CDYO, was returning from a local flight to Membury Airfield. Weather conditions were CAVOK, with northerly wind at 5 kt and temperature 25°C.
Approach and Landing
The pilot reported being slightly higher and faster than normal on approach. Another aircraft was waiting to depart at the holding point, so the pilot planned to land halfway down the runway to maintain separation. On landing, the aircraft bounced twice. On the third touchdown, the nosewheel collapsed and the propeller struck the runway. The aircraft came to a halt on the left-hand edge of the runway.
Pilot's Reflection
After the accident, the pilot reflected that he should have initiated a go-around when he realized he was high and fast on the approach and was not going to land at the start of the runway, or after the first or second touchdown.