What happened
On August 15, 2017, a Diamond Aircraft Super Dimona, registration F-CJDM, was performing circuit patterns at the Bourg-Saint-Bernard airfield. The flight was conducted for general aviation purposes by a single pilot.
During the second landing attempt, the pilot experienced uncertainty regarding the engine's throttle position. While attempting to verify that the throttle was fully in the idle position, the pilot released control of the elevator with the right hand. During this moment, the aircraft's pitch decreased, leading to a hard touchdown and a subsequent bounce.
In an attempt to recover, the pilot applied full power to initiate a go-around. However, the engine began to vibrate, indicating that the propeller had struck the ground. Realizing the remaining runway distance was insufficient for a continued approach on the current heading, the pilot performed a turn to land on the opposite runway. During this maneuver, the canopy shattered. The aircraft eventually landed safely at the parking area.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing phase and the aircraft's configuration. The BEA examined the trim settings, noting that the aircraft's trim system uses fixed increments, which can necessitate manual longitudinal pressure on the control column to maintain a stable flight path. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's actions regarding the simultaneous management of the throttle, airbrake, and elevator controls during the flare.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained heavy damage to the propeller, the junction between the right main landing gear and the fuselage, and the canopy.
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's decision to temporarily release control of the elevator to check the throttle position during the landing flare.
- The pilot's attempt to perform a go-around after the propeller strike resulted in a low rate of climb, necessitating a change in landing direction.