What happened
On 28 February 2021, a Pioneer 300, registration G-GTOM, was conducting a private maintenance flight when it experienced a landing gear failure at Wadswick Farm airstrip in Box, Somerset. The pilot was on a stable approach to Runway 10 when the aircraft touched down, resulting in a moderate bounce. After the aircraft settled, the pilot applied slight power and continued the landing.
Due to the downslope of the runway, the pilot applied the brakes while the aircraft was traveling at a relatively low speed. During this deceleration, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to come to a stop. The incident resulted in no injuries to the pilot, but the aircraft sustained damage to the engine cowling, the nose landing gear, and the propeller blades.
The investigation
The investigation examined the runway conditions and the sequence of the landing. It was noted that the runway surface had several defects. Following reports from various pilots and an LAA Inspector regarding the rough condition of the surface, the landowner had since repaired several areas. One specific defect located on the runway centerline was found to be between 6 and 8 inches deep.
Findings
- The pilot's assessment suggested that the nose landing gear collapse was caused by the aircraft striking a significant runway defect while simultaneously braking on a downslope.