Accident Overview
On 31 March 2019 at 1053 UTC, a Vans RV-6A (registration G-CKTF) was involved in an accident at Stapleford Aerodrome, Essex. The aircraft was on a private flight with one pilot and one passenger. Neither occupant was injured.
Flight History
The pilot planned to fly to Calais-Dunkerque Airport but diverted to Stapleford Aerodrome due to worsening visibility near Rochester. The pilot landed on grass Runway 03L.
Accident Sequence
While turning left to vacate the runway, the nose landing gear failed after it dug into soft ground in a depression. The aircraft tipped onto its left wingtip and nose, causing the propeller to strike the ground. The aircraft then settled back onto both mainwheels.
Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the nose landing gear, propeller, and potential engine shock-loading.
Pilot Information
The 55-year-old pilot held a Private Pilot’s Licence and had 420 hours total flying experience, including 9 hours on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 5 hours, with 3 hours in the last 28 days.
Aircraft Information
The Vans RV-6A was manufactured in 1999 (serial no. 24431) and powered by a single Lycoming O-360-A1A piston engine.