What happened
On 14 July 2009, a student pilot was conducting solo training circuits at Netherthorpe Airfield in Nottinghamshire. The flight involved operating a Cessna 150D, registration G-ASMW, on a grass runway. During the landing phase, the pilot selected a 30º flap setting. While attempting the flare, the aircraft ballooned slightly. In an effort to correct the flight path, the pilot executed a nose-down input which resulted in a nosewheel-first touchdown. The aircraft subsequently bounced and became airborne once more before a second landing. Upon application of the brakes during this second touchdown, the nose landing gear collapsed.
The investigation
The investigation examined the landing performance requirements for the airfield. The available landing distance on the grass runway was 370 m (1,220 ft). According to the aircraft's performance charts, a dry paved runway requires a ground roll of 445 ft and a total landing distance of 1,075 ft when using 40º flaps. The manual further mandates adding 215 ft to both figures when operating on dry grass. Consequently, the required distance for a standard landing would have exceeded the available runway length. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's report, noting that while the approach speed was perceived as slightly high, it was not deemed excessive for the conditions.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the nose landing gear leg, firewall, cowlings, propeller, engine frame, and mount, alongside shock-loading to the engine.
- There were no injuries to the pilot.
- The pilot's attempt to correct a ballooning maneuver led to a nosewheel-first touchdown.
- The available runway length was insufficient to accommodate the required landing distance for a grass surface based on the aircraft's performance charts.