What happened
On 12 July 2007, an Oldfield Baby Lakes, registration G-BTZL, was engaged in a private flight intended for upper airwork in the vicinity of Welshpool Airport. The flight commenced without incident, including a successful takeoff and subsequent maneuvers. Prior to landing, the pilot performed a go-around to better understand the handling characteristics of the single-seat taildragger biplane.
During the final approach to Runway 22, the wind was recorded at 240 degrees at 8 knots. Upon touchdown, the aircraft began its landing roll; however, shortly after contact with the runway, the tail of the aircraft lifted. This caused the aircraft to nose over, eventually coming to rest in an inverted position on the runway. The pilot, who was wearing a full harness, sustained no injuries and was able to exit the aircraft from beneath the inverted airframe. While a fuel leak was noted, no fire occurred. The impact resulted in damage to the engine, propeller, tail fin, and top wing.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's recent flying history and the mechanical state of the aircraft. It was noted that the pilot had not flown a taildragger aircraft since the 1970s, with his recent experience primarily involving Cessna 150 nosewheel aircraft. The investigation also considered the pilot's use of the aircraft's controls during the landing roll, specifically the application of brakes and elevator back-pressure.
Findings
- The pilot's recent flying experience was largely limited to nosewheel aircraft, and he lacked recent experience with taildragger operations.
- During the landing roll, it is possible that the pilot inadvertently applied the brakes while operating the rudder pedals.
- It is also possible that the pilot released back-pressure on the elevator during the landing roll, contributing to the tail lifting.
- The pilot had used high-speed taxi runs prior to the flight to gain familiarity with the aircraft's ground handling.