What happened
On 6 May 2003, a Europa aircraft, registration G-JULZ, departed Sandtoft for a private flight. During the initial takeoff, the wind was recorded at 10 to 12 kt from the right. Upon the pilot's return approximately one hour later, wind conditions had intensified, with a crosswind of 15 kt and gusts reaching 18 kt.
Despite the increased wind, the pilot proceeded with the approach, maintaining the intention to perform a go-around if necessary. The landing itself was executed on the runway centerline without any initial drift or control difficulties. However, during the subsequent ground-roll, the aircraft lost directional control and entered a ground loop to the left. The aircraft eventually came to a stop after rotating 180 degrees from its original landing direction. There were no injuries to the pilot, though the propeller blades, out-rigger leg, and fairing sustained damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical configuration and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The aircraft was a mono-wheel variant of the type, featuring a tail-wheel located behind the rudder that is operated via a spring-based system. The manufacturer's documentation specifies a maximum demonstrated cross-wind component of 15 kt.
Investigators looked into the effectiveness of the steering mechanism. It was noted that the springs responsible for operating the tail-wheel had become looser than when the aircraft was originally built. This condition potentially diminished the steering authority provided by the tail-wheel when the rudder was deflected.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a ground loop to the left, which was contrary to the expected weathercock effect given the wind direction.
- The loss of directional control during the ground-roll led to the aircraft rotating 180 degrees.
- The springs operating the tail-wheel were less taut than during the aircraft's initial completion, which may have reduced steering effectiveness.