What happened
On 6 September 2001, a Hill PF Rans S6-ESD XL (Modified), registration G-MZBV, was conducting a pleasure flight at Jurby Airfield, Isle of May. During the approach to Runway 26, the aircraft encountered southwesterly winds of approximately 10 to 12 knots, accompanied by periods of turbulence.
As the pilot attempted to perform a roundout for landing, the aircraft struck the ground with significant force. This impact resulted in the detachment of the port main undercarriage leg. Following this failure, the nose gear leg collapsed backwards, causing the propeller tips to strike the airfield surface.
There were no injuries to the pilot or the single passenger on board. Both occupants were wearing safety harnesses with shoulder straps and were able to exit the aircraft safely.
The investigation
The investigation, prompted by an accident report submitted by the pilot, focused on the sequence of events during the landing phase and the mechanical failure of the landing gear. The examination established that the aircraft's structural damage, which included the broken port undercarriage and damage to the nose gear and propeller, was a direct result of the landing impact.