What happened
On 5 May 1999, a Rans S6-116, registration G-BWHK, was performing a private flight returning to its base at Lane Green Farm, Alvely, near Bridgnorth. The aircraft was approaching a grassed landing strip measuring roughly 350 metres in length, which featured a slight 2° upslope and was bordered by large trees at the far end of the field.
During the landing sequence, the pilot executed what was described as a normal approach, though the touchdown was noted to be slightly fast. As the aircraft proceeded along the landing roll, a slight shimmy was felt through the airframe. Shortly thereafter, the nosewheel collapsed, causing the aircraft to invert. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries and were able to unfasten their seatbelts and exit the aircraft safely.
The investigation
Investigators examined the condition of the landing surface and the aircraft's mechanical state following the accident. While the pilot initially characterized the grassed area as soft, the recovery team described the ground conditions as being 'like a bog'. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that the commander held a Private Pilot's Licence with 206 total flying hours, only 8 of which were on this specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The landing surface was extremely soft and saturated, described by recovery personnel as bog-like.
- The aircraft experienced a nosewheel collapse during the landing roll.
- The touchdown speed was slightly higher than ideal for the conditions.