What happened
On June 18, 1967, at 14:33 CEST, a Bölkow Junior 208, registration HB-UXN, was completing a one-hour flight when the pilot attempted to land at the Lommis airfield. During the approach, the pilot utilized a flap setting of only 12 degrees, which was approximately one-third of the maximum available extension. This configuration contributed to a long landing, with the aircraft touching down approximately 240 meters from the end of the 630-meter grass runway.
Following the touchdown, the pilot decided to initiate a go-around. However, the decision to apply full power was made too late to prevent the aircraft from overrunning the runway perimeter. In an attempt to avoid a barbed wire fence located roughly 30 meters past the runway end, the pilot attempted to pull the aircraft steeply upward. This maneuver caused the aircraft to strike the wire fencing, causing it to lose lift and sink. As the aircraft continued to roll, it subsequently collided with a second barbed wire fence running lengthwise across the path.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's experience, the aircraft's condition, and the environmental factors at the time of the accident. The pilot held a private pilot license and had accumulated 47.25 flight hours, including 8.5 hours specifically in the Bölkow Junior 208. The aircraft, HB-UXN, was found to be in a fully airworthy condition with no mechanical defects noted. Weather conditions were reported as clear under high pressure with a light wind of approximately 3 knots.
Findings
Several factors contributed to the accident. The primary cause was the pilot's delayed decision to execute a go-around following an excessively long landing. This was compounded by the use of insufficient flap settings during the approach, which prevented the aircraft from slowing down effectively. Additionally, the investigation noted that high grass on the runway likely hindered the aircraft's performance during the attempted takeoff. Despite the significant damage to the aircraft, there were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.