What happened
On 4 June 2010, a Cessna 152, registration G-FIFO, was performing a private flight between Popham Airfield and Chichester (Goodwood) Airfield. During the return leg to Popham, the pilot executed an overhead rejoin for a left-hand circuit. The weather conditions were favorable, characterized by good visibility and light, variable winds.
While on the downwind leg, the pilot increased the flaps by 10 degrees. As the aircraft transitioned to the base leg, a tailwind component developed. This caused the aircraft to touch down in a flat attitude, accompanied by a loud bang. The pilot immediately attempted a go-around; however, the nose landing gear had sustained damage, resulting in a loss of effective nosewheel steering.
Unable to maintain directional control on the runway, the pilot reduced throttle and steered the aircraft into a patch of long grass to the right of the runway to avoid hitting buildings and parked aircraft. Before exiting the aircraft, the pilot isolated the fuel and electrical systems. The aircraft's contact with the long grass caused it to pitch over onto its back. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances surrounding the touchdown and the subsequent loss of control. The investigation focused on the impact of the tailwind on the aircraft's landing attitude and the subsequent mechanical failure of the nose gear. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision to steer into the grass to avoid obstacles and the impact of the terrain on the aircraft's stability.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced an unexpected tailwind component immediately prior to touchdown.
- This wind component caused the aircraft to land in a flat attitude.
- The landing resulted in damage to the nose landing gear, which compromised directional control.
- The aircraft's transition into long grass led to the final pitch-over onto its back.