Incident Overview
On 7 May 2016, at 15:15 local time, a Robin DR400-120 aircraft registered as F-GDEZ was involved in a landing accident at Oloron-Herrere Aerodrome (Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France) on runway 07, which was unpaved. The flight was conducted under general aviation rules, with only the pilot on board. The aircraft sustained damage to the nose gear, propeller, cowling, and engine mount.
Flight Sequence
According to the pilot's testimony, the flight was intended to perform three takeoffs and landings to maintain recent experience requirements for carrying passengers. During the first landing, the aircraft bounced. After the bounce, it struck the ground with a nose-down attitude. The nose gear then broke off, and the aircraft slid for a few meters before coming to a stop.
Meteorological Conditions
Weather at the time was reported as calm wind, CAVOK (ceiling and visibility OK), and temperature 19°C.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot estimated that the approach was likely flown with excessive speed. He added that more regular training would have allowed him to avoid the accident.
Investigation
The investigation was conducted by the French Bureau d'Enquêtes et d'Analyses (BEA). The information in this report is primarily based on the pilot's testimony and has not been independently validated by the BEA.