Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft involved was an Aeronca Champion 7FC, registration G-ARAS, manufactured in 1960. It was powered by a single Continental C90-12F piston engine. The flight was conducted as a type familiarisation exercise. On board were the 57-year-old pilot, who held a Private Pilot's Licence with 97 hours total flying experience (7 hours on type), and one passenger.
Flight History
The two members of the aircraft's ownership group departed from Clipgate and flew to Lashenden (Headcorn Airfield) in fine weather. The surface wind was westerly at approximately 12 knots. After completing a normal circuit, the aircraft approached to land on Runway 29.
Landing and Damage
As the aircraft crossed the threshold, the pilot realised that he had allowed the airspeed to decrease below the stalling speed. The passenger also noted the low airspeed and called for corrective action. However, before the pilot could respond, the aircraft touched down extremely heavily. The pilot continued the landing roll and subsequently observed that the cabin door was damaged. After taxiing to the parking area and shutting down the engine, a thorough inspection revealed that the airframe had suffered structural deformation from the impact.
Outcome
No injuries were reported among the pilot and passenger. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the airframe. The accident was reported via the Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot to the AAIB.