What happened
On March 30, 1967, a Piper Cub, registration HB-OUV, was involved in a landing accident at Geneva Airport. The aircraft was being operated by a student pilot performing a solo circuit pattern under the remote supervision of an instructor. During the landing phase, the pilot executed a flare that was too high, leading to a heavy touchdown on the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the flight maneuvers performed during the circuit. It was established that the aircraft struck the runway with significant force due to the improper flare height. The impact resulted in the destruction of the left landing gear.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an improperly executed flare, specifically performing the maneuver too high above the runway surface.
- The impact caused the left gear to collapse.
- There were no injuries to the pilot following the event.