What happened
On November 8, 2018, a Piper J-3C-65/L4, registration HB-ODC, was performing a private flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) from Sion to La Croix-de-Cœur. During reconnaissance flights conducted two days prior to the incident, the pilot had noted a thin layer of snow covering the runway. Due to mild temperatures, the pilot proceeded with the flight, intending to perform landings using wheels rather than skis.
Upon the first landing attempt, the aircraft traveled approximately 40 meters along the runway before encountering significant braking force caused by the snow. This sudden deceleration caused the aircraft to pitch forward, resulting in the propeller making contact with the ground. The aircraft subsequently settled back onto its three wheels. The pilot sustained minor injuries during the event.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the conditions of the runway and the aircraft's behavior during the landing roll. Investigators examined the environmental factors, specifically the presence of snow on the runway at La Croix-de-Cœur, and the pilot's decision-making regarding landing gear configuration. The inspection confirmed that the aircraft sustained heavy damage to the propeller and the engine cowling.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the sudden deceleration caused by the snow-covered runway, which induced a nose-down pitch.
- The pilot's decision to land on wheels despite the known presence of snow contributed to the unexpected braking force encountered during the landing roll.