What happened
On 29 June 1998, a Rans S6-116, registration G-BVCL, was conducting a private flight when it experienced a landing accident at Headcorn Aerodrome in Kent. During the arrival on Runway 29, the aircraft made contact with the runway surface with the nosewheel first. This initial impact led to the subsequent collapse of the nose landing gear.
At the time of the incident, the surface wind was recorded at 260°/10 to 15 knots, with slight gusts present. The aircraft was carrying two people, including the pilot, and both the crew and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The impact resulted in damage to the propeller and the nose landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of the touchdown and the mechanical state of the landing gear. The pilot, who held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 131 total flying hours, reported the specific manner in which the aircraft contacted the runway.