Accident Summary
On 11 July 2011 at 1730 UTC, a Luscombe 8E Silvaire Deluxe, registration G-BTCJ, suffered a nose-over accident during landing at Bidford-on-Avon Airfield, Warwickshire. The aircraft was engaged in a private flight with only the pilot on board.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, manufactured in 1941, was powered by one Continental Motors Corp O-200-A piston engine. The pilot, aged 62, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 186 total flying hours, including 18 hours on the Luscombe type. In the preceding 90 days, he had flown 18 hours, and 8 hours in the last 28 days.
Weather and Runway Conditions
Weather conditions were good, with reported winds of 2 knots from 240 degrees. The pilot conducted an approach to Runway 24, a grass runway with a slight downslope.
Sequence of Events
The pilot executed a three-point touchdown and rolled out approximately 80 meters along the runway. When the pilot applied the brakes, the aircraft nosed over onto its back. The pilot sustained minor injuries, and the aircraft was extensively damaged.
Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, canopy, firewall, and experienced shock-loading to the engine.
Probable Cause
The pilot assessed that the accident was associated with a light load, a forward centre of gravity position, and a possible relaxing of the stick back pressure.