What happened
On 28 October 2002, a Jabiru UL-450, registration G-BZSZ, was conducting a private flight at Pent Farm Strip in Kent. During the landing phase, the pilot executed a standard touchdown on the grass runway. As the aircraft continued its rollout, it encountered a pathway that intersected the runway surface.
As the nosewheel transitioned over a rut created by this pathway, the nose leg failed. This structural failure caused the aircraft to pitch forward abruptly, resulting in the plane flipping onto its back. The two occupants, the pilot and one passenger, sustained minor injuries. Both individuals were able to exit the aircraft through the doors following the impact.
The investigation
The investigation examined the circumstances surrounding the runway surface and the mechanical failure of the landing gear. It was established that the weather conditions were favorable, characterized by good visibility and a very light crosswind.
Analysis of the aircraft's state following the inversion showed damage to the fin, the upper side of the fuselage, and the nose leg. The investigation noted that the high-wing design of the Jabiru UL-450 and the low speed of the aircraft at the time of the incident played a significant role in protecting the occupants from more severe harm. Additionally, the seatbelts and safety harnesses were found to have functioned as intended.