What happened
On 31 August 2009, a modified Luscombe 8A Silvaire, registered G-BRSW, was conducting a private flight at Cromer Airfield in Norfolk. During the approach to Runway 26, the pilot focused on navigating past power cables located at the threshold end of the runway. In the process of managing this obstacle, the pilot reduced engine power too early. This resulted in a heavy touchdown, which caused damage to the tailwheel assembly and the left landing gear leg.
At the time of the incident, the wind was recorded at approximately 15 knots from a direction of 210°. The runway in use features a displaced threshold and an uphill gradient.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry examined the flight conditions and the pilot's actions during the final approach. It was established that the pilot's attention was divided by the need to clear power cables at the runway threshold, leading to the premature reduction of power.
Findings
- The primary cause of the heavy landing was the premature reduction of engine power during the approach.
- The pilot's concentration on avoiding power cables at the runway threshold contributed to the error.
- There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger on board.