What happened
On 6 January 1999, an SD3-30 Variant 100, registration G-BHHU, was conducting a training flight at Luton Airport. The aircraft, operated for pilot instruction, was performing a practice flapless landing on Runway 26. At the time of the operation, the forecast surface wind was 230°/16 kt.
During the final stages of the approach, the aircraft encountered turbulence. As the pilot transitioned into the flare, the airspeed dropped quickly, making it impossible to avoid a heavy touchdown. Following the landing, a post-flight inspection identified that the rear fuselage had made contact with the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry examined the flight conditions and the aircraft's performance during the flapless approach. The pilot noted that a significant weather front arrived at the airfield shortly after the incident occurred.
Findings
- The primary cause of the heavy landing was a rapid reduction in airspeed during the flare.
- The pilot identified wind shear associated with an approaching weather front as a likely contributing factor to the loss of airspeed and subsequent impact.