What happened
On 31 March 2008, a Mainair Blade 912, registration G-MAIN, was conducting a dual training flight at Finmere Airfield in Buckingham. The flight was being conducted by an instructor and a student pilot. During the session, the crew performed several practice Engine Failure After Take Off (EFATO) maneuvers at a low altitude.
While the first two attempts concluded with successful landings on the runway, the third practice maneuver resulted in a heavy touchdown. As the aircraft approached the runway, it developed a high sink rate, causing it to land forcefully. This impact led to the collapse of the right main landing gear suspension, which subsequently caused the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight conditions and the mechanics of the landing. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were favorable, characterized by light and variable southerly winds of approximately 3 knots. The investigation looked into the factors contributing to the increased sink rate during the third simulated engine failure.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the right main landing gear suspension.
- There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.
- The high sink rate during the landing may have been caused by a slight tailwind component or disturbed air generated by nearby trees located 200 meters south of the runway.