What happened
On 11 April 2010, a Flight Design CTSW, registration G-CEKD, was performing a solo circuit at Home Farm Strip in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire. The flight was being conducted by a student pilot following a two-hour instructional session. During the landing flare, the aircraft drifted toward the left edge of the runway without correction.
Upon touchdown, the main wheels entered a section of the grass runway that had become soft due to recent heavy rainfall. As the wheels dug into the ground, the nose gear struck the surface with significant force. The impact resulted in damage to the nose gear and the engine mounts. The pilot was able to shut down the engine and exit the aircraft without any injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the condition of the airfield and the flight circumstances. It was noted that Runway 03 is a grass strip with a cambered centerline. Because of recent heavy rain, the ground at the lower edges of the runway was significantly softer than the center. The investigation also reviewed the instructor's feedback, noting that the instructor believed the crosswind and runway conditions were unsuitable for a solo student flight.
Findings
- The aircraft drifted toward the edge of the strip during the landing flare.
- The soft ground conditions at the runway edges caused the main wheels to dig in upon touchdown.
- The resulting heavy impact caused the nose gear and engine mounts to sustain damage.