What happened
On April 9, 2015, a private Lancair 320, registration HB-YFR, was performing a visual flight rules (VFR) landing at Sion Airport (LSGS). Upon touchdown, the aircraft began to veer sharply to the left. The pilot attempted to counteract this movement using the rudder brakes, but was unable to regain directional control. As the aircraft drifted off the prepared surface, it struck two runway lights and sustained significant damage to the right landing gear leg. The aircraft eventually came to a stop after sliding on its belly. The single occupant of the aircraft, the pilot, remained uninjured during the event.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical and physical circumstances during the landing roll. Investigators examined the cockpit controls and the condition of the aircraft following the excursion. The inquiry established that the aircraft's right landing gear leg was broken during the incident. A critical finding during the post-accident inspection was the position of the pilot's footwear. Upon exiting the aircraft, the pilot noted that his right shoe had slipped underneath the right side of the rudder pedal, effectively wedging it in place.
Findings
- The primary cause of the runway excursion was the physical blockage of the rudder pedal.
- The pilot's right shoe became trapped under the right side of the rudder pedal, preventing the application of the necessary braking force to correct the leftward veer.
- The excursion resulted in the destruction of two runway lights and structural damage to the aircraft's right landing gear.