What happened
On March 13, 1972, a Piper J3-C, registration HB-OXT, departed from Ecuvillens aerodrome carrying a pilot and one passenger. During a return flight from the Lac Noir region, the pilot noticed that the airspeed indicator needle had become stuck at 65 mph. Despite several attempts to unstick the instrument, the pilot proceeded to the landing circuit.
Under calm wind conditions and good visibility, the pilot opted for a high approach speed to mitigate the risk of an aerodynamic stall due to the unreliable airspeed reading. Witnesses observed the aircraft appearing high and fast on its final approach. As the aircraft crossed the first half of the 637-meter runway (runway 28) at an altitude of approximately 3 meters, it began to lose altitude. The aircraft touched down on its main gear 90 meters before the end of the runway. While attempting to use the brakes to stay within the landing area, the aircraft's tail rose, and the plane eventually performed a nose-over at the edge of the airfield. There were no injuries to the occupants, though the aircraft sustained minor damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and the pilot's flight parameters. Post-accident inspections of the aircraft and workshop checks confirmed that the airspeed indicator system was functioning correctly. Although a leak was identified during the inspection, it was determined that this leak did not affect the accuracy of the readings nor cause the needle to stick.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's credentials and flight history. The pilot held a valid license but had a total flight time of 98.48 hours, with only 8.18 hours specifically on this aircraft type. Additionally, it was noted that the pilot had violated licensing regulations by carrying a passenger without having completed the required three take-offs and landings within the preceding three months.
Findings
- The pilot performed an approach that was too high and too fast.
- The pilot applied excessive braking during the landing roll.
- A go-around should have been initiated given the instrument malfunction.