Wing drop during landing leads to propeller strike at Sandown Airport

Casualties unknown • Sandown Airport, Isle of Wight, GB

An Avions Fairey SA Tipsy Junior experienced a wing drop and subsequent propeller strike during a landing attempt at Sandown Airport.

What happened

On 15 September 2008, an Avions Fairey SA Tipsy Junior, registration G-AMVP, was performing a private flight at Sandown Airport, Isle of Wight. During the landing sequence on Runway 05, the aircraft experienced a bounce upon contact with the runway. Shortly after this bounce, while the aircraft was positioned just above the runway surface in preparation for a three-point landing, the port wing stalled. This caused the port wing to strike the ground, leading the wooden propeller to impact the runway surface.

The aircraft eventually came to a halt in a nose-low position. The pilot, who was wearing a full safety harness, was able to exit the open cockpit without injury. There were no injuries to the crew or any passengers, as the pilot was the sole occupant.

The investigation

The investigation was informed by the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot and observations from airport operations staff. Investigators noted that the weather conditions at the time were favorable, with a light surface wind originating from the north at approximately 5 to 8 knots. The examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the wooden propeller, a dent in the engine cowling, and scuffing on the underside of the port aileron.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a wing drop and subsequent stall of the port wing following a bounce during the landing phase, resulting in the propeller striking the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-09-15 Avions Fairey SA Tipsy Junior accident near Sandown Airport, Isle of Wight, GB?

An Avions Fairey SA Tipsy Junior experienced a wing drop and subsequent propeller strike during a landing attempt at Sandown Airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-09-15 involved a Avions Fairey SA Tipsy Junior, registration G-AMVP, at Sandown Airport, Isle of Wight, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a wing drop and subsequent stall of the port wing following a bounce during the landing phase, resulting in the propeller striking the ground.

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