Overview
On 22 September 2024, a Tecnam P2008JC, registration SP-LFM, was involved in an incident at airport EPPT during a solo training flight. The aircraft was being used for student pilot training towards a PPL(A) license.
Event Sequence
The student pilot had completed three solo flights totaling 1 hour 39 minutes and three dual flights with an instructor totaling 36 minutes earlier that morning. The instructor then left the cockpit, and the student proceeded with a solo flight to practice circuits including touch-and-go landings.
On final approach, the student flared and held the aircraft too high above the runway. This caused a loss of airspeed, leading to a stall and a hard landing on the main landing gear. The aircraft bounced, and the student initiated a go-around. During the climb, the student noticed that the engine was not reaching the required takeoff power, maintaining approximately 1800 rpm. The student informed the instructor and performed a short circuit at low altitude. Anticipating possible further power loss, the student executed a higher approach with extra speed margin and landed with a float. Due to the engine issue, the landing was given priority.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident inspection revealed no damage to the airframe or any malfunction of the powerplant. The investigation could not determine a technical cause for the engine power reduction.
The incident was classified as an aircraft incident (incydent lotniczy). The investigation was conducted by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) under applicable regulations.
Cause
The probable cause of the incident was a high flare and hold-off during landing, which resulted in a loss of airspeed and a hard touchdown.
Preventive Actions
The training organization decided to have the student pilot repeat landing exercises (proficiency flights) focused on proper judgment of flare height and hold-off before touchdown. No safety recommendations were issued.