What happened
On October 31, 2011, a Robin DR400-120, registration F-BTZI, was performing a local flight at the Rouen Vallée de Seine aerodrome. During the final approach to runway 22, the pilot increased the approach speed by 10 km/h to account for reported wind conditions of 15 knots from 160 degrees with gusts.
As the aircraft passed over the runway threshold, the pilot reduced engine power. Upon touchdown, the main landing gear made contact with the runway, but the aircraft subsequently bounced to an estimated height of one meter. The pilot maintained a nose-up attitude and did not adjust engine power during the bounce. Following the second touchdown, the aircraft drifted toward the left side of the runway. The pilot attempted to use the right rudder pedal to correct the direction but was unsuccessful.
As the aircraft veered off the paved surface, the pilot attempted to apply braking, but the aircraft continued across taxiway T2 and eventually came to a stop in a ditch located 75 meters from the runway centerline. The aircraft sustained heavy damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of the landing, the pilot's experience, and the aircraft's braking system. Investigators noted that the aircraft was equipped with a manual handbrake that acts on both wheels simultaneously. The pilot, who had only 70 total flight hours and had completed training on this specific type just two days prior, reported that he had forgotten the braking system was manual and took several seconds to engage it during the excursion.
Investigators also examined the airfield layout, noting that while the ditch was located outside the runway strip and met regulatory requirements, it had been involved in several previous runway excursions at this aerodrome over the last decade.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an inappropriate landing technique combined with a lack of familiarity with the aircraft's specific handling characteristics and braking system.
- The pilot's limited flight experience and recent transition to the Robin DR400-120 contributed to the inadequate management of the aircraft's ground trajectory.
- The collision with the ditch, which caused the significant damage to the aircraft, was a result of the aircraft's position relative to the runway edge.