What happened
On 26 September 2020, a Cessna F172P Skyhawk, registration EI-SKP, was performing a solo general handling exercise near Abbeyshrule Airfield, Co. Longford. Upon returning to the airfield for circuit practice, the student pilot attempted an approach to runway 28. The approach was characterized by excessive speed and altitude.
Despite recognizing that the aircraft was high and fast, the pilot chose to proceed with the landing rather than performing a go-around. The initial touchdown was heavy, causing the aircraft to bounce. During the subsequent sequence of bounces, the aircraft struck the runway in a nose-down attitude. This impact caused the nose landing gear to fail, leading the rotating propeller to strike the runway surface. The aircraft eventually came to a halt past the intersection of Taxiway C South. The pilot sustained one minor injury after exiting the aircraft, and the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
AAIU investigators examined the aircraft's structural integrity and the pilot's training history. The inspection revealed that the heavy impact had sheared the top alignment bolt of the nose oleo, causing the inner tube to exit the housing. Furthermore, the attachment brackets for the nose gear had fractured or separated from the airframe. The investigation also noted 17 witness marks on the runway surface, confirming the propeller strike.
Regarding the pilot's background, records indicated a good standard of flying ability and consistent positive assessments. The aircraft was found to be properly maintained and airworthy at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a high and fast approach that resulted in a bounced landing.
- The pilot's decision to continue the landing despite the unstable approach contributed to the nose-down impact.
- The impact caused the nose landing gear to rotate forward, resulting in the propeller contacting the ground.
- The aircraft's nose gear attachment brackets failed due to the force of the impact.