What happened
On May 7, 2016, a Robin DR400-120, registration F-GDEZ, was performing a series of takeoffs and landings at the Oloron-Herrere aerodrome. The pilot was conducting the flight to maintain currency for carrying passengers. During the first landing attempt on runway 07, the aircraft experienced a bounce upon touchdown. Following this bounce, the aircraft struck the unpaved surface in a nose-down attitude. The impact caused the nose gear to break, resulting in the aircraft sliding several meters along the ground.
The investigation
Based on the pilot's testimony, the investigation established that the weather conditions at the time of the accident were favorable, with calm winds, CAVOK visibility, and a temperature of 19 °C. The investigation focused on the sequence of the landing and the physical impact on the airframe.
Findings
- The pilot indicated that the approach was likely performed at an excessive airspeed.
- The pilot noted that more regular training might have prevented the occurrence.