What happened
On September 17, 2012, a Robin DR400-120, registration F-BUSF, was performing circuit training at the Saint-Etienne Bouthéon aerodrome. The pilot was conducting these maneuvers to obtain authorization for carrying passengers. During the final approach of the first circuit, flying in full flaps configuration, the pilot perceived the airspeed of 110 km/h to be too low and subsequently increased the engine power.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot was unable to execute a proper flare. The nose gear made contact with the ground at an estimated speed of 130 km/h. This impact caused the aircraft to bounce, striking the ground a second time. The sequence concluded with the aircraft coming to a halt on a broken nose gear, resulting in heavy damage to the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's flight maneuvers and the aircraft's landing technique. The pilot, who had recently obtained his basic license in July 2012, had a total of 101 flight hours, with approximately 15 hours as pilot-in-command. At the time of the accident, the weather conditions were favorable, characterized by calm winds, CAVOK, and a temperature of 22 °C.
Findings
Investigators determined that the accident was caused by a late and incomplete flare. It was concluded that the pilot likely focused his attention on adjusting the engine power during the flare phase, which led to a lack of monitoring of external visual references.