What happened
On 13 May 2017, a Jodel D120A Paris-Nice, registration G-BYBE, was conducting a private flight when it experienced an incident during landing at MOD St Athan, South Wales. After touching down on Runway 25, the aircraft traveled approximately 100 metres before it began to veer towards the left.
In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied a brief application of the right brake followed by rudder input. However, these corrective actions failed to stabilize the aircraft. The aircraft subsequently entered a ground loop, which resulted in the collapse of the right landing gear and damage to the right wing.
There were two occupants on board, the pilot and one passenger, both of whom were wearing appropriate safety harnesses. Neither the crew nor the passenger sustained any injuries during the event.
The investigation
Following the incident, the AAIB examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of directional control. The investigation reviewed the aircraft's mechanical state and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. Wind conditions were recorded as 240° at 9 knots. The investigation also noted the pilot's flying experience, which included 300 total hours, with 103 hours specifically on this aircraft type.