What happened
On 24 June 1999, a Jodel DR1051, registration G-AYGD, was conducting a private flight from Netherthorpe to a private landing strip at Grove Farm, near Retford, Nottinghamshire. The weather conditions at the time were favorable, characterized by scattered high clouds and a light surface wind.
The pilot decided to land on Runway 29. Although this choice involved landing into a tailwind, the pilot believed the upward slope of the runway would sufficiently offset the wind resistance. While the aircraft touched down at the correct location on the runway, the resulting landing roll exceeded the pilot's expectations. To prevent overrunning the strip, the pilot applied heavy braking during the final stages of the roll.
As the aircraft slowed to approximately 10 knots, roughly 60 yards from the runway end, the tail lifted, causing the aircraft to tip forward onto its nose. The impact resulted in a broken propeller, a cracked engine cowling, and dented wheel spats. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the landing and the environmental conditions at the Grove Farm strip. The investigation established that the pilot's assessment of the wind was inaccurate due to the specific geography of the airfield. The investigation noted that the landing roll was longer than the pilot had anticipated, necessitating the use of firm braking.
Findings
- The primary cause of the nose-over was the unexpectedly strong tailwind at the landing site.
- The pilot's estimation of the wind strength was incorrect because the Grove Farm strip is situated in a more exposed position than anticipated.