Accident Details
On 7 January 2002, at approximately 0730Z, a Jabiru SP micro light aircraft (registration ZU-CNG) was conducting solo circuit and landing practice at Eshowe. The pilot had just touched down for the fourth landing when the accident occurred. The aircraft bounced upon landing, then touched down on its nose wheel. The nose gear subsequently collapsed, causing the aircraft to nosed over onto its back. The accident resulted in damage to the propeller, rudder, vertical stabilizer, and wing strut.
Pilot Information
The pilot, aged 40, held a valid private pilot license with total flying experience of 356 hours, including 19 hours on the Jabiru SP. The medical certificate had expired on 5 May 2001, while the license expiry date was 5 May 2005.
Circumstances
The pilot reported being distracted by a tractor mowing grass adjacent to the runway during landing. The distraction led to a bounced landing, and the pilot failed to recover correctly. The aircraft subsequently touched down on its nose wheel, which failed due to the incorrect landing attitude, causing the aircraft to overturn.
Meteorological Conditions
Conditions at the time were CAVOK with wind from the northeast at 2 knots, temperature +26°C, and cloud cover of 2/8 at 2700 feet AMSL.
Occupants and Injuries
Only the pilot was on board; no injuries were reported.