What happened
On 31 August 2016, a Quik GT450 Quik, registration G-CFKJ, was engaged in a solo training flight at Caernarfon Airport, Gwynedd. The student pilot was performing visual circuits using Runway 25. During the sequence, the pilot had previously performed a go-around on a prior circuit, which resulted in the aircraft not being perfectly aligned with the runway centerline.
While attempting to land, the pilot became preoccupied with repositioning the aircraft. This distraction led to a late flare during the approach. The aircraft subsequently made a firm touchdown and bounced. Upon the second contact, the nose landing gear collapsed. The impact caused the foot throttle to jam in the full power position. Unable to release the throttle, the pilot could not stop the aircraft, which traveled approximately 20 metres before coming to a halt on the grass adjacent to the runway. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation examined the circumstances of the landing and the mechanical state of the aircraft following the impact. It was established that the pilot's focus on runway alignment contributed to the improper flare technique. The investigation also looked into the mechanical failure of the throttle control following the gear collapse.