What happened
On September 19, 1970, a private Cessna 140, registration HB-CAG, departed Wangen-Lachen for a flight to Samedan. The flight route took the aircraft over several landmarks, including the Klausen Pass and the Julier Pass, before approaching Samedan Airport.
Upon arrival, the pilot noted that Runway 21 was in operation despite light winds. During the initial approach, the pilot experienced significantly high ground speed, resulting in a wheel landing where the aircraft bounced back into the air. Following a second approach, the pilot aborted the landing before touchdown. On the third attempt, the pilot noted a light tailwind. Although the aircraft initially touched down in a three-point attitude, it began to veer to the left. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied rudder; however, the aircraft's tail lifted, causing the propeller to strike the runway. The aircraft then slid 40 meters toward the left edge of the runway, where it eventually overturned.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and the runway conditions at Samedan. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's brakes were in excellent working order, although the pedal travel was noted to be short. Evidence of heavy braking was found on the runway, with distinct marks from the main landing gear followed by propeller impact marks. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight experience, noting that while the pilot was a licensed private pilot, they had very limited experience with the Cessna 140 and had primarily been flying nosewheel aircraft in recent years.
Findings
- The pilot's attempt to correct the leftward veer was improper.
- The pilot likely applied the brakes simultaneously with the rudder input, which caused the tail to lift.
- The high approach speed and the preceding bounced landing likely influenced the pilot's subsequent handling of the aircraft.
- Improper corrective rudder and braking input led to the propeller strike and the subsequent overturn.