What happened
On 16 July 1998, an Enstrom F-28A, registration G-BAIB, was conducting a private training flight at Shoreham Airport, West Sussex. The flight was intended for general revision purposes for a newly qualified private pilot. During the session, the student pilot had successfully performed three engine-off landings.
While attempting a fourth approach, the student initiated a flare at approximately 80 feet and subsequently increased the flare to maintain a level altitude between 25 and 30 feet, following the prescribed procedure. As the aircraft was being levelled in preparation for a run-on landing, a vibration was detected originating from the tail rotor. The instructor immediately took control of the aircraft and completed the landing without further complications.
The investigation
Following the incident, the aircraft was subjected to a physical examination. This inspection revealed that the tail rotor had made contact with the ground during the maneuver. No injuries were reported for either the crew or the passenger on board, and the damage to the aircraft was categorized as minor.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the tail rotor striking the ground during the landing sequence.
- The student pilot was following the correct flare procedure prior to the impact.
- The instructor was able to intervene and stabilize the aircraft once the vibration was noted.