What happened
On June 1, 1998, a Mudry Cap 10 aircraft, registered F-ODNL, was performing an aerobatic training flight at Saint-Denis Gillot aerodrome. Following a 25-minute flight, the pilot executed a long landing on runway 12, intending to taxi directly toward the aero club's taxiway. Due to a relatively high speed upon landing, the aircraft slightly overshot the intersection.
While attempting to execute a right-hand turn to reach the taxiway, the pilot applied the right brake and slightly increased engine power. During this maneuver, the aircraft encountered a tailwind component. As the aircraft passed through a tailwind position, the tail section lifted, causing the propeller to strike the ground.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the aircraft's movement during the taxiing phase and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. Investigators examined the pilot's actions, specifically the use of braking and power, in relation to the wind conditions. The meteorological data at the time of the event indicated an east-southeast wind of 17 to 24 knots, with visibility exceeding 10 km and a temperature of 26 °C.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was insufficient control of the aircraft during taxiing while subjected to a tailwind.
- The physical impact between the propeller and the ground resulted in damage to the propeller.