What happened
On December 9, 2016, a Piper J3C-65/L-4, registration HB-OXD, was performing a landing on runway 25 at Bressaucourt Aerodrome (LSZQ). The flight was being conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for private purposes. During the flare phase of the landing, the aircraft drifted slightly to the left of the runway centerline. In an attempt to correct the aircraft's position and return to the center, the pilot inadvertently caused the right wheel to make contact with the runway first. This sudden impact triggered a left-hand ground loop, during which the tip of the right wing struck the ground.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing flare and the subsequent loss of directional control. Investigators examined the aircraft's movement on the runway and the physical damage sustained. The inspection confirmed that the aircraft suffered light damage, specifically noting that the right wing tip made contact with the surface.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the unbalanced landing caused by the right wheel touching the runway first during a corrective maneuver.
- The pilot's attempt to recenter the aircraft after drifting left led to an asymmetrical touchdown.
- The resulting ground loop caused the right wing to strike the ground, leading to minor structural damage to the Piper J3C-65/L-4.
- There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger during the event.