Accident Overview
On 17 May 2003, a Jabiru SP microlight aircraft, registered ZU-CJF, was operating on a private flight from Virginia to Piet Retief. The pilot diverted to Newcastle due to adverse weather conditions. While on downwind for Runway 11 at Newcastle, the engine began running rough. The pilot elected to turn base leg earlier than normal and flew a tight approach for Runway 11. The pilot reported being too fast and touched down with the nose and main undercarriage simultaneously, causing the nose undercarriage to collapse. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Meteorological Conditions
At the time of the accident, the weather was overcast with a 5-knot variable wind.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft had a valid Authority to Fly and had been operated for 25 hours since the last annual inspection. It had accumulated 125 total hours since new.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a valid Private Microlight licence and had 101.7 total flying hours, all on type.
Sequence of Events
During the flight, the pilot diverted to Newcastle due to adverse weather. On approach, the engine started running rough. The pilot attributed the rough running to carburetor icing and his own inexperience in conducting a controllable landing. He turned base leg early and flew a tight final approach. The landing was performed at excessive speed, resulting in a simultaneous touchdown on the nose and main landing gear, which caused the nose gear to collapse.
Damage and Injuries
There were no injuries to the pilot, who was the sole occupant. The aircraft was substantially damaged.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as stated in the report, is: Due to excessive speed during final approach, the Aircraft landed hard on the nose wheel, which collapsed, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.