What happened
On 23 April 2004, a Jodel DR250/160, registration G-BUVM, was participating in a training flight at Walton Wood Airfield in West Yorkshire. The pilot was engaged in type conversion and continuation training under the guidance of a coach from the Popular Flying Association.
While the aircraft's usual base of operations is Huddersfield (Crossland Moor) Airfield, which features an asphalt runway, Walton Wood was selected specifically to practice landings on grass strips. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were favorable with light and variable winds. The aircraft was utilizing runway 24/06.
Following four successful circuits and landings, the pilot commenced a fifth approach. During the short final phase of this approach, the pilot reduced engine power in response to instructions from the coach. This reduction in power caused the aircraft to descend rapidly from a height of approximately ten feet. The aircraft subsequently struck the grass runway with significant force, leading to the collapse of the port undercarriage and causing the aircraft to pitch forward onto its nose.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of the final approach and the impact of power reduction on the aircraft's flight path. The inspection of the aircraft revealed damage to the engine cowlings, the propeller, and the port undercarriage.