What happened
On November 14, 2018, a Piper Aircraft Corporation PA-18/150, registration HB-PRB, was performing a training flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at Locarno Aerodrome (LSZL). The flight, operated by Ascoavia SA, was returning to the airfield following an instructional session.
As the aircraft was on final approach to runway 26R, it experienced a sudden and violent roll to the right just before touchdown. The right main landing gear made contact with the runway, causing the aircraft to veer sharply to the left. The force of the impact was sufficient to cause the tire to detach from the rim, leaving visible tracks on the runway surface. Following this, the aircraft bounced and performed a left-hand turn on the ground, eventually striking the runway with the right wingtip. The aircraft finally came to a rest facing east and was taxied to a hangar.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing phase and the mechanical state of the aircraft. Investigators examined the runway for tire and rim marks and inspected the aircraft for structural damage. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft sustained grave damage to the right wing and the right landing gear.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a loss of control of the tailwheel aircraft during the landing phase.
- The sudden contact of the right wheel with the ground caught the crew by surprise.
- Due to the unexpected nature of the roll, the crew was unable to use the rudder to counteract the sharp leftward deviation of the aircraft.