Source: Flyer sept. 2023

Unwanted crosswind landing

PITTS S-1S SYWELL AERODROME NORTHANTS

The pilot lost directional control while landing on a concrete runway, with a 12kt crosswind component from the right. Despite application of full left brake and left rudder, the aircraft yawed to the right during the landing roll before nosing over, coming to rest inverted.

The pilot was experienced on type and commented that if he had been given clearance to land on the parallel grass runway, or an available into-wind grass runway, the accident was unlikely to have occurred.

Comment: The pilot clearly alludes to his concern about not being allowed to use a more preferable runway for his Pitts, both in terms of grass and crosswind requirements. Safety and aerodrome operators procedures may not always be aligned.