History of the Flight
On 29 September 2018, a Jabiru UL-450, registration G-CEOM, departed from Darley Moor Airfield bound for Cromer Airfield in Norfolk. The pilot, aged 69, held a Private Pilot’s Licence with 1,114 total flying hours, including 354 hours on the type. A passenger was also on board. During the pre-flight inspection, the pilot noted both main tyres appeared slightly underinflated. After checking, the pressures were 20 psi and were increased to 25 psi. The takeoff and en route flight of 111 nm were uneventful.
The aircraft was established on approach to grass Runway 22 at an indicated airspeed of 55 kt with full flap. The wind was from 245° at 5 kt. Upon touchdown, the aircraft immediately turned left and began to skid sideways. The skid caused the nose landing gear and right landing gear legs to collapse. The aircraft came to rest at the side of the runway. Neither the pilot nor passenger sustained injuries.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Jabiru UL-450, manufactured in 2007 (serial number PFA 274A-14455), powered by a single Jabiru 2200A piston engine. The accident resulted in damage to the nose landing gear, right landing gear, wing, and propeller.
Aftermath
Following the accident, the left tyre was found deflated. Grooves in the runway were observed, likely caused by the left wheel and brake assembly. The pilot considered that, after the tyre inflation at Darley Moor, the left tyre valve may not have fully sealed, allowing air to slowly leak during the flight.