Loss of control during landing of Phoenix Air U-15 at Buttwil

Casualties unknown • Buttwil Flugplatz (LSZU), AG, CH

A private touring motor glider experienced a bounce and subsequent ground contact during landing at Buttwil airfield, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft.

What happened

On April 14, 2018, at approximately 12:20 local time, a Phoenix Air U-15 (registration F-JBRG) was performing a private flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) from Raron to Buttwil. During the final approach to runway 34, the pilot initiated the flare maneuver too late. This delay caused the aircraft to bounce off the runway surface. Following this impact, the aircraft made contact with the ground, leading to damage to the propeller and the right main landing gear fairing.

There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger on board, and no third parties were affected. The aircraft sustained light damage.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing phase at Buttwil (LSZU). Investigators examined the flight path and the pilot's actions during the transition from approach to touchdown. The inquiry established that the aircraft's contact with the ground following the bounce resulted in specific mechanical damage to the propeller and the right wheel fairing.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the incident was the pilot initiating the flare maneuver too late, which led to a bounce on the runway and subsequent ground contact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-04-14 PHOENIX AIR U-15 accident near Buttwil Flugplatz (LSZU), AG, CH?

A private touring motor glider experienced a bounce and subsequent ground contact during landing at Buttwil airfield, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-04-14 involved a PHOENIX AIR U-15, registration F-JBRG, at Buttwil Flugplatz (LSZU), AG, CH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the incident was the pilot initiating the flare maneuver too late, which led to a bounce on the runway and subsequent ground contact.

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