What happened
On 7 March 2009, a Flight Design CTSW, registration G-CEWT, was conducting a private flight from Old Buckenham Airfield to a grass airstrip at Priory Farm, Norfolk. The flight, carrying a pilot and one passenger, took place in favorable weather conditions, despite a 10-knot crosswind present at the destination.
During the landing phase, the pilot executed a normal approach but performed a late flare. This resulted in a heavy touchdown on the main wheels. The force of the impact caused the nosewheel to strike the ground and collapse. Following the collapse, the aircraft decelerated rapidly and nosed over, eventually coming to rest in an inverted position. Both occupants were able to exit the aircraft through the right-hand door without assistance, and no injuries were sustained.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the landing technique and the mechanical response of the aircraft upon impact. It was established that the pilot was familiar with the destination airstrip and had intended to perform a standard approach.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the late flare performed by the pilot during the landing sequence.
- The heavy touchdown on the rear wheels generated sufficient force to trigger the collapse of the nosewheel.
- The impact led to the destruction of the propeller and spinner, as well as damage to the landing gear and wingtips.