What happened
On April 2, 2011, a Robin DR 315, registration F-BROE, was performing a takeoff-landing maneuver at the Romorantin Pruniers aerodrome. The pilot, carrying two passengers, intended to fly to Ussel but first planned to complete an airfield circuit on the unpaved runway 23 right.
The aircraft touched down approximately 80 meters after the runway threshold. While the pilot was configuring the aircraft for takeoff, the plane unexpectedly lifted off the ground. This unexpected takeoff caused the aircraft to bounce twice. The second impact with the runway was heavy, causing the aircraft to veer to the left. Realizing the nose gear was damaged, the pilot initiated a go-around to prevent the aircraft from veering off the runway. During the subsequent circuit, the pilot experienced a significant skid that could not be corrected. The aircraft eventually landed again without further incident.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft on the ground and found the nose gear heavily damaged. The damage had affected the nose gear's orientation, which is linked to the rudder pedals. Consequently, the damage prevented the full range of motion of the rudder pedals, thereby restricting the movement of the rudder.
The investigation also looked into the aircraft's weight and balance. The pilot noted that the center of gravity was further aft than what he was accustomed to, and the trim position was also different. The pilot had relatively limited experience with two adult passengers on board and had approximately 300 total flight hours, with about 60 hours on this specific type.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's insufficient consideration of the effects of the aft center of gravity and the specific trim position, both of which differed from his usual flight configurations.
- The unexpected lift-off during the takeoff-landing maneuver surprised the pilot, leading to the subsequent bounces and heavy impact.
- The damage to the nose gear restricted the mechanical movement of the rudder, complicating directional control during the go-around.