Accident
On 26 May 2013 at 0926 UTC, a private Ikarus C42 FB80 (registration G-CDRO) experienced a heavy landing at Old Sarum Airfield in Wiltshire. The accident occurred after a flight from Popham. The weather was fine with a very light north-westerly wind.
Approach and Landing
The pilot flew a normal approach to Runway 24. During the flare, the aircraft ballooned, which the pilot attributed to pulling the control column back too far. He attempted to recover by applying a small amount of power to control the descent. However, the aircraft touched down heavily, and the left main landing gear collapsed. The aircraft then veered sharply to the left and came to rest off the grass runway.
Occupant Status
Both the pilot and his passenger were wearing full harnesses and were uninjured.
Pilot Information
The pilot (aged 63) held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had 156 hours of flying experience, all on the Ikarus C42 type. His recent flying included 8 hours in the last 90 days and 3 hours in the last 28 days.
Aircraft Information
The Ikarus C42 FB80 was manufactured in 2005 (serial number 0507-6750) and was powered by one Rotax 912-UL piston engine. The accident resulted in damage to the left main landing gear.
Pilot's Report
In his accident report, the pilot acknowledged that a go-around would have been the correct course of action following the ballooned flare.