What happened
On 21 March 2009, a Pegasus XL-Q, registration G-MWNC, was conducting a training flight for dual circuit practice. The flight originated from Great Ellingham in Norfolk, but the crew relocated to Hingham to take advantage of more favorable wind conditions for the student.
During the second circuit, the aircraft performed a normal approach. While the touchdown was described as relatively smooth, the aircraft was traveling approximately 5 knots faster than the intended airspeed. After decelerating for about 10 metres, a sudden shudder occurred and the nose dropped abruptly. The aircraft tucked under and rolled onto its left wing, resulting in extensive damage to the airframe, propeller, and trike unit. The two crew members sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the disintegration of the nosewheel. Fragments of nylon from the wheel were found scattered along the runway track. The investigation established that the nosewheel was composed of two nylon mouldings bolted together.
While the pilot suggested a manufacturing fault, the manufacturer's examination of the fragments showed no specific evidence of such a defect. However, the investigation noted that the wheel was relatively new, having failed on only its third landing. The British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA) subsequently alerted inspectors to check for cracks in similar components, though no widespread issues were identified.
Findings
- The nosewheel disintegrated during the landing sequence.
- The aircraft's braking system, which uses a 'mud-scraper bar' to apply pressure to the tyre, imposes additional loads on the wheel during braking or heavy landings.
- A manufacturing defect in the nosewheel cannot be excluded.