What happened
On 29 November 1997, a Slingsby T67B Firefly, registration G-BLPI, was engaged in a training flight at RAF Laarbruch, Germany. The flight was being conducted by an instructor from a Flying Training Centre to perform a currency check on a pilot holding a Private Pilot's Licence.
After completing various upper air exercises, the aircraft returned to the circuit and performed two successful landings. During the climb-out following the second touch-and-go, the instructor closed the throttle to simulate an engine failure after take-off (EFATO). At an altitude of approximately 75 feet, the student pilot failed to react promptly to the simulated emergency. The instructor was forced to intervene and take control of the aircraft; however, by that time, the right main landing gear had already struck the ground with significant force.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Examination of the aircraft revealed structural damage resulting from the impact. Specifically, the investigation identified a hairline crack within the weld of the right-hand main gear stub axle, along with some bending observed in the lower telescopic strut.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the delayed reaction of the student pilot to the simulated engine failure.
- The impact occurred at a low altitude of roughly 75 feet during the climb phase of the simulated emergency.
- There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.