Incident Summary
On 26 June 2021, at 08:50 local time, a Piper Aircraft Inc. PA-28R-201T, registration YU-DXX, operated by a private individual, was involved in a ground incident during taxi at Čenej Airport, Novi Sad. The aircraft was preparing for a private flight to Trstenik Airport.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft, a 1978 Piper PA-28R-201T, was owned by GAS Aviation d.o.o. and used by the pilot for non-commercial purposes. The pilot, aged 56, held a valid PPL(A) license with appropriate ratings. The aircraft had a total airframe time of 6,620 hours and 9 minutes. The flight was planned as a private flight with one person on board (the pilot).
Sequence of Events
After starting the engine, the pilot decided to exit the parking platform "B" at its left side to avoid a metal structure on platform "A" and a perceived steeper gradient at the center. During taxi off the concrete parking area onto the grass surface, the nose landing gear wheel entered a hole, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and stop abruptly. The propeller, which was rotating, struck the ground, resulting in damage.
The pilot immediately shut down the engine and all systems, then exited to inspect the aircraft. He found the nose wheel in a hole and the propeller blades bent. He notified the accident investigation center and did not move the aircraft until the investigation team arrived.
Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, with blades bent. No other parts of the aircraft were damaged. There was no damage to third parties.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions were favorable for the planned flight and did not contribute to the incident. Conditions were variable clouds, dry with long sunny intervals, light to moderate northwest wind, and temperature around 21°C.
Conclusion
The investigation determined that the incident occurred when the nose wheel entered a hole during taxi. No injuries or fatalities occurred.