What happened
On 1 June 2011, a Flight Design CTSW, registration G-OMSA, was participating in a private flight involving two aircraft flying in loose formation. Upon joining the circuit at Sibson Airfield, the pilots coordinated via radio for the lead aircraft to perform a touch-and-go, with G-OMSA following behind.
During the final approach to Runway 24, the aircraft descended to a low altitude above the surface. The aircraft touched down in a flat attitude just before the runway's displaced threshold. This initial contact resulted in a bounce, and upon the second touchdown, the nose landing gear failed. As the aircraft decelerated, it tipped onto its back, coming to rest in an inverted position. The pilot was uninjured and was able to exit the cockpit without assistance.
The investigation
An investigation was initiated following the submission of an accident report by the pilot. An instructor, who was taxiing a different aircraft with a student, witnessed the event while approaching the holding point. The instructor noted that the aircraft appeared to be following closely behind the lead plane and observed the touchdown near the runway's displaced threshold.
Investigators examined the circumstances of the approach and the physical state of the aircraft. The pilot noted that while they had used a flight guide to prepare for the visit, they were not aware of the specific upslope feature at the displaced threshold of the runway. The instructor also suggested that the nosewheel might have encountered a divot in the surface, potentially contributing to the gear failure.