What happened
On August 15, 2017, an Aero AT-3 R100, registration HB-SRC, was performing a training flight at Bern-Belp Airport (LSZB). The flight, conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), was a solo circuit session for a student pilot.
During the approach, the aircraft touched down on runway 32, bounced, and made a second contact with all three wheels. The student pilot then initiated a go-around. During this power application, the aircraft pitched up and suddenly veered to the left. The left wingtip struck the concrete runway, causing the aircraft to depart the paved surface and travel onto the grass. The aircraft struck the ground several times before coming to a halt near a taxiway. The student pilot sustained minor injuries and was able to exit the cockpit unassisted. No fire occurred.
The investigation
SUST examined GPS data, aircraft maintenance records, and statements from the student pilot, the instructor, and air traffic control. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within prescribed limits and that no technical malfunctions contributed to the accident. The investigation also reviewed the student pilot's training progress, noting that the pilot had not flown for 19 days prior to the accident.