What happened
On 1 July 1998, a Cessna 150, registration G-BAEP, was conducting a private flight departing from Fenland Airfield in Lincolnshire. The aircraft was operating on Runway 36, which at the time consisted of a dry grass surface with an available landing distance of 624 metres. Weather conditions were stable, with winds reported from 040 degrees at 10 to 15 knots and no significant cloud cover.
During the landing phase, the pilot performed an approach that was perceived to be normal. However, upon touchdown, the aircraft struck the ground with enough force to cause the nose landing gear to collapse. The impact resulted in the aircraft coming to an immediate halt. Following the incident, the pilot shut down the engine, fuel, and electrical systems before exiting the aircraft safely.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inspection of the aircraft revealed that the nose landing gear had failed due to the impact. Additionally, the propeller was found to be bent, and the engine had sustained a shock load as a result of the landing force.
Findings
- The primary cause of the gear failure was a heavy landing on the nose gear.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the nose landing gear, a bent propeller, and engine shock loading.
- There were no injuries to the pilot during the event.