What happened
On 28 July 2002, a Jabiru UL, registration G-LOIS, was engaged in a training flight at Old Sarum Aerodrome. The flight was intended for conversion training, focusing on general handling and circuit practice. Following the completion of general handling, the crew performed a circuit where an initial approach was abandoned via a go-around due to excessive height. A subsequent approach and landing were completed successfully.
After taxiing to the holding point, the crew performed another takeoff and circuit. During the landing on Runway 06, the aircraft made a firm, flat, three-point contact with the runway. Immediately following this touchdown, the nosewheel collapsed. This structural failure caused the propeller to impact the ground, resulting in shock loading of the engine. There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.
The investigation
The investigation examined the circumstances surrounding the landing and the physical impact on the aircraft. Investigators noted that the landing on Runway 06 occurred on a section of the runway characterized by a slight 4-foot upslope. The investigation focused on the interaction between the landing technique and the runway topography.
Findings
- The landing was a firm, flat, three-point touchdown.
- The runway upslope combined with the nature of the landing contributed to the collapse of the nosewheel.
- The collapse led to the propeller striking the ground and subsequent damage to the engine, nosewheel, and propeller.