What happened
On October 22, 2013, a Piper PA-34-200T Seneca II was performing a training flight for IR/ME rating requirements near Rzeszów (EPRZ). During the approach to landing at Mielec Airport (EPML) at approximately 18:15 LMT, the crew confirmed the landing gear was extended and locked via the cockpit indicator lights.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft pitched forward, causing the fuselage and propellers to make contact with the runway surface. The crew immediately shut down the engines and notified airport authorities, initially believing the nose gear had failed to extend. Airport emergency services responded to the scene.
The investigation
The investigation determined that the landing was performed on the nose wheel. This impact caused an overload that resulted in the fracture of the hydraulic actuator's pivot mount. The investigation examined the aircraft's configuration, noting that the deployment of landing flaps, the reduction of engine power, and a forward center of gravity during the flare phase created a significant pitching moment. The investigation also noted that a slight eastward slope of the runway could have created a visual illusion of an excessively steep approach angle during the night operations.
Findings
- The primary cause was an error by the student pilot, who landed at an incorrect angle.
- The instructor failed to react appropriately to the developing situation during the landing phase.
- Contributing factors included the forward center of gravity and the change in pitching moment caused by flap deployment and reduced engine power.
- The runway's slight eastward slope may have contributed to a visual illusion during the night approach.