Introduction
On 3 February 2026, a serious incident occurred at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang, involving a Piper PA-28-161 aircraft, registration 9M-NKD. The aircraft was operated by a student pilot on a solo circuit and landing exercise as part of an approved training programme.
History of the Flight
The student pilot had completed check flights with an instructor on 1 and 2 February 2026 and was cleared for the second solo circuit and landing. After completing pre-flight and pre-take-off checks, the aircraft departed from Runway 15 at approximately 0900 LT. The take-off was normal, with rotation at about 60 knots and a stable climb. After take-off checks at 300 feet, the aircraft climbed to 1,000 feet, executing a right turn. At approximately 0906 LT, the pilot completed downwind checks and initiated the base turn. Approach flap settings of 10° and 20° were selected. Weather conditions were clear with minimal wind. Subang Tower cleared the aircraft for a touch-and-go landing.
At approximately 0910 LT, during landing, the aircraft flared but experienced a series of bounces. Following the bounces, the nose pitched forward. The pilot assessed that a go-around could not be safely initiated and allowed the aircraft to settle. The final bounce resulted in a significant impact on the nose landing gear. At 0911 LT, the pilot informed Subang Ground and was instructed to vacate the runway and taxi back to the hangar without further difficulty.
Injuries to Persons
No injuries were sustained. The student pilot reported some shakiness after the occurrence.
Damage to Aircraft
Post-flight inspection revealed a burst nose-wheel tyre and propeller strike damage to both propeller tips. The propeller blades showed severe curling and deep abrasive scarring, consistent with a sudden ground strike while the engine was delivering power. The nose landing gear assembly exhibited structural bending, indicating heavy ground contact. The nose wheel tyre had catastrophic failure with circumferential shredding and delamination.
Other Damage
The extent of any runway damage could not be established as the investigation team was notified six days after the occurrence.
Personnel Information
The student pilot was a 40-year-old Malaysian male with a Student Pilot Licence valid until 31 December 2027. He had 36 total flying hours, all on type. He was medically fit and had rested more than 24 hours before the flight.
Aircraft Information
The Piper PA-28-161 is a single-engine, low-wing aircraft with fixed landing gear and a fixed-pitch propeller, powered by a 160-hp Lycoming O-320-D3G engine. The aircraft was manufactured in 2010 by Piper Aircraft Inc. It was owned by Aurotel Sdn. Bhd. and operated by Air Adventure Flying Club. The Certificate of Registration was valid until 11 October 2028, and the Certificate of Airworthiness until 8 January 2027. Maintenance records confirmed the aircraft was airworthy on the day of the occurrence.
Meteorological Information
The weather was clear with minimal wind; meteorological conditions were not considered a factor.
Communications and Aerodrome Information
All communication frequencies operated normally. The incident occurred at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang (WMSA).
Conclusion
The investigation is ongoing. No probable cause has been determined at this preliminary stage.