What happened
On April 12, 2003, a TECNAM P9-2JS, registration EC-IJB, was conducting a recreational flight from Sabadell to Calaf. Upon approaching the Calaf aerodrome, the pilot performed a reconnaissance pass and a full landing circuit for runway 31. During the approach, the pilot noted the presence of model aircraft enthusiasts at the runway head. To avoid this area, the pilot executed a long and heavy landing, touching down at approximately 60 kt, which was significantly higher than the recommended landing speed.
After touchdown, the pilot intentionally steered the aircraft toward a dirt path running parallel to the runway, seeking better taxiing conditions. As the aircraft entered the path at an estimated speed of 42 kt, the nose gear struck a 20 cm high earthen ridge. The impact caused the nose gear to collapse, forcing the nose of the aircraft into the ground. The collision resulted in damage to the propeller, engine mount, and engine cowling.
The investigation
The investigation examined the landing sequence, the pilot's decision-making regarding the taxi route, and the physical state of the aircraft and aerodrome. Investigators noted that the pilot had landed with a speed 16 kt above the manual's recommendation. While there was sufficient runway remaining to stop on the main strip, the pilot chose to deviate to the side path. The investigation also reviewed the terrain of the Calaf aerodrome, specifically the presence of a raised ridge on the left-side path and the presence of mud on the nose wheel following the accident.
Findings
- The landing was characterized as long and hard due to the pilot's attempt to avoid model aircraft enthusiasts at the runway head.
- The pilot's decision to steer the aircraft onto a lateral dirt path to seek better taxiing conditions led to the accident.
- The nose gear collapse was caused by the combination of high taxiing speed (42 kt), the presence of mud, and the lateral load applied when the gear struck the earthen ridge at an angle of approximately 45 degrees.
- The presence of bystanders at the runway head negatively influenced the pilot's landing technique.