What happened
On 21 March 2007, a Skyranger 912(2), registration G-CEDZ, was conducting a private flight from Huddersfield when the pilot began experiencing abdominal pain. Seeking the nearest available airfield, the pilot diverted to Oxenhope in West Yorkshire. Although visibility was good, the aircraft encountered turbulent air during its approach to the 450-metre grass runway.
While attempting to maintain the centerline amidst the turbulence and physical discomfort, the pilot performed a fast approach. The initial touchdown occurred on a rough section of the runway, causing the aircraft to bounce. In an attempt to correct the flight, the pilot lowered the nose for a second touchdown. During this second contact, the nose leg failed, causing the spinner to dig into the turf and flipping the aircraft onto its back. The pilot, who was wearing a full harness, escaped the wreckage uninjured through the door. However, the accident resulted in a fuel leak of approximately 40 litres from the tank breathers, creating a significant fire risk near the downed aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft to determine the cause of the landing gear failure. The inspection revealed that the nose leg had suffered a structural failure at a weld located on the fork. This failure caused the wheel rim to lock upon contact with the ground, directly leading to the collapse of the leg during the second touchdown.
Findings
- The pilot's developing medical condition and the presence of turbulence acted as significant distractions during the landing phase.
- The nose leg failure at a weld was the primary cause of the aircraft overturning.
- The initial touchdown occurred on an uneven part of the grass runway, contributing to the bounced landing.