What happened
On 5 September 2009, a Europa XS, registration G-CEMI, was conducting a private flight at Gloucestershire Airport. During the approach to Runway 22, the pilot performed a flare that was slightly delayed. While the aircraft initially made contact with its main wheels, the nose remained elevated at the moment of touchdown. This configuration caused the aircraft to bounce back into the air.
As the aircraft became airborne again, the pilot attempted to apply power to initiate a go-around. However, the sudden nature of the bounce meant the pilot's reaction was not fast enough to complete the maneuver. The aircraft subsequently descended and struck the ground on its nosewheel, followed by a heavy impact on all three landing gear legs. The impact caused damage to the propeller and the nose leg.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The investigation established that the wind conditions at the time were 7 knots from 204°.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a late flare during the landing phase.
- The aircraft's nose remained high at the initial touchdown, triggering the bounce.
- The pilot's attempt to execute a go-around was unsuccessful due to the unexpected nature of the bounce and delayed power application.