What happened
On 24 October 2013, a Team Minimax 91, registration G-CEDW, was conducting a private local flight departing from Easterton Airfield in Moray. The weather conditions at the time of the incident were favorable, with a wind speed of approximately 10 knots originating from 260°.
During the landing phase on Runway 26, the pilot executed an approach that was initially standard. However, during the landing roll, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of stability, causing it to tip forward onto its nose. The impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond economic repair. The pilot sustained minor injuries to his face.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the landing and the pilot's control inputs. The pilot noted that the landing was poorly executed and believed that a delayed flare maneuver contributed to the severity of the impact.
Findings
- The aircraft tipped onto its nose following a landing on Runway 26.
- The primary contributing factor was a late flare by the pilot, which led to a hard landing and subsequent nose-over.