What happened
On 5 April 2011, a Cessna 152, registration G-BOIR, was being used for a training flight at Sleap Airfield, Shropshire. The flight was being conducted by a student pilot accompanied by an instructor. After successfully completing two circuits on Runway 23, the student pilot was permitted to proceed with a solo circuit consolidation exercise.
During the landing flare of the initial circuit, the aircraft encountered a gust of wind that caused it to rise slightly. This resulted in the nosewheel making contact with the runway first, leading to a bounce. Following this, the aircraft touched down on the main gear. The impact caused the nose leg to collapse, resulting in the aircraft coming to rest on its nosewheel.
Despite the impact, the student pilot was uninjured and was able to exit the aircraft without assistance. The aircraft sustained damage including a propeller strike and scuffing to the underside of the engine cowlings.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances of the landing and the weather conditions at the time of the accident. The forecast indicated winds from 220° at 15 knots, with gusts up to 25 knots. At the time of the occurrence, the actual wind was recorded as being from 220° at 18 knots. The student pilot noted that the wind had become significantly stronger and more gusty during the solo circuit.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the nosewheel making contact with the runway first during the landing flare.
- A gust of wind during the flare phase contributed to the aircraft's nose rising and then dropping onto the nosewheel.
- The student pilot was able to vacate the aircraft unaided and sustained no injuries.