What happened
The flight originated in Lebanon, New Hampshire, before proceeding to Sugarbush-Warren Airport. The pilot initiated a normal approach to the airport for landing. However, the initial touchdown was firm, resulting in a hard landing that caused the aircraft to bounce off the runway surface.
During the subsequent bounce, the propeller made contact with the runway. Recognizing the situation, the pilot applied additional power to regain control and complete the landing sequence. The aircraft successfully touched down again, and the pilot taxied the aircraft off the runway to a parking area. No further damage occurred to the airframe or systems during this phase.
The investigation
Examination of the event focused on the landing dynamics and the immediate aftermath of the propeller strike. The primary finding was that the initial hard landing induced a bounce, which led to the propeller contacting the ground. Despite the impact, the aircraft remained controllable, allowing for a safe recovery and taxi.
Findings
The incident highlights the risks associated with hard landings, particularly in light aircraft where bounce can lead to secondary impacts. The pilot's decision to add power during the bounce was critical in preventing a potential loss of control or more severe damage. The event underscores the importance of proper flare technique and energy management during the final phase of flight.