What happened
The aircraft was operated by a student pilot accompanied by a flight instructor on a local training flight. During the approach and landing phase, the student pilot failed to execute a proper flare in time, resulting in a hard touchdown. The impact caused the aircraft to bounce upon contact with the runway surface.
Recognizing the situation, the instructor assumed control of the aircraft. The instructor successfully executed a soft landing following the bounce. However, the structural integrity of the landing gear was compromised by the initial impact forces. The main landing gear collapsed during the subsequent rollout. Despite the substantial damage to the airframe and landing gear system, both occupants remained uninjured and exited the aircraft safely.
The investigation
Examination of the accident site revealed that the main landing gear had failed to support the weight of the aircraft after the bounce. The collapse occurred despite the instructor's attempt to mitigate further impact through a controlled soft landing technique. No mechanical failures or pre-existing defects in the landing gear system were identified as contributing factors prior to the impact.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the damage was the failure of the student pilot to flare at the correct altitude and rate during the final phase of flight. This error resulted in an excessive vertical speed at touchdown, causing a bounce that exceeded the structural limits of the landing gear assembly. The subsequent collapse was a direct consequence of this initial impact event rather than a mechanical malfunction.
Safety message
Proper flare technique is critical for safe landings. Pilots must ensure adequate airspeed and pitch attitude are maintained to achieve a smooth touchdown and prevent hard impacts that can damage aircraft structures.