What happened
On 27 June 2002, a Jodel D18, registration G-BUAG, was performing a series of go-around practices at Bodmin Airfield. The flight, which was a private operation, involved the pilot and one passenger. During the final approach to Runway 32, the aircraft encountered turbulence and windshear. Despite the pilot attempting to compensate by applying engine power, the aircraft made a heavy impact with the runway surface. This impact caused both main landing gear legs to collapse, resulting in the aircraft coming to rest on the left side of the runway, short of the displaced threshold. There were no injuries to the occupants, though the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller blade tip and the landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the environmental conditions at the time, noting that winds were variable between 310° and 360° at 10-15 knots, with visibility at 8 km and cumulus clouds at 2,500 feet. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting he had 1,104 total flying hours, though only 14 of those were on this specific aircraft type. The investigation also considered the specific meteorological warnings associated with Bodmin Airfield, which notes that sea breezes can cause sudden changes in wind velocity and downdraughts, leading to windshear and turbulence on all runway approaches.
Findings
- The primary cause of the heavy landing was the encounter with severe windshear and turbulence during the approach.
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with the Jodel D18 may have contributed to the outcome.
- The pilot noted that an incipient cold may have resulted in slower-than-normal reactions during the event.