What happened
On July 29, 2016, a Robin DR400-140B, registered F-BXEZ, was conducting a solo instructional flight from Vinon Aerodrome. Prior to the solo flight, the pilot had completed a dual-instruction session with an instructor, successfully performing two circuit patterns and a reduced-power landing.
During the solo portion of the flight, the pilot completed two circuit patterns. While attempting to land after the third circuit, the aircraft experienced a bounce upon touchdown. Following a second bounce, a third bounce occurred. In an attempt to manage the aircraft, the pilot pushed the control column forward, causing the aircraft to strike the ground on its nose gear. The impact resulted in the rupture of the nose gear and significant damage to the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of the landing and the pilot's actions during the bounces. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were reported as CAVOK with calm winds. The pilot's experience was noted, with a total of 31 flight hours, including seven hours of solo flight on this specific type. The pilot reported being surprised by both the magnitude of the initial bounce and the subsequent number of bounces that occurred.