What happened
On 1 September 2006, a Denney Kitfox Mk3, registration G-BXCW, was returning to its base at Rollington Farm, near Corfe, Dorset, following a local flight. The landing area was an unmarked field that permitted operations in any direction. During the approach, the pilot had to navigate a steep descent to avoid power lines situated near the edge of the landing site.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced. In an attempt to maintain control and prevent the aircraft from tipping, the pilot lowered the nose. This action caused the aircraft to tip forward onto its nose during the subsequent contact with the ground before settling back onto the landing gear. The pilot was uninjured and was able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the circumstances of the approach and the pilot's corrective actions following the initial bounce. The aircraft sustained damage to the landing gear struts and their respective anchor points.
Findings
- The landing was conducted in good weather with a north-westerly wind assisting a south-east approach.
- The presence of power lines necessitated a steep approach profile.
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's decision not to perform a go-around despite being high on the final approach.
- The subsequent nose-over was triggered by the pilot's reaction to the bounce, specifically the decision to push the nose forward.