Aircraft Information
The aircraft involved was a 1974 Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, registration G-BTBU, powered by a single Lycoming O-320-A2B piston engine.
Accident Narrative
On 8 July 2004, at approximately 0957 UTC, the pilot conducted a straight-in approach to Runway 11 at Lashenden (Headcorn), Kent. The surface wind was reported as 140 degrees at 10 knots. The approach was flown at 60 mph with full flap and appeared normal. At about 20 feet above the runway, the pilot flared the aircraft, causing it to stall and land heavily. Realizing that the aircraft was wing down and 'slewing across the runway', the pilot applied full power to initiate a go-around. During the go-around, he noticed that the left landing gear had been damaged. He subsequently closed the throttle, and the aircraft came to a stop slightly off the runway, striking a marker post in the process.
Damage and Injuries
The accident resulted in damage to the left landing gear. Both the pilot and the passenger were uninjured.
Pilot Information
The commander held a Private Pilot's Licence and was 39 years old. His total flying experience was 116 hours, with 23 hours on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 16 hours, and in the last 28 days, 8 hours.