What happened
On December 11, 2003, a SOCATA TOBAGO TB-10, registration EC-FPN, was performing a solo flight for the purpose of accumulating experience. The aircraft departed from Peñaranda de Bracamonte and was proceeding toward Salamanca Airport under visual flight rules.
Upon approaching the airfield, the pilot received landing instructions and authorization for runway 21 from the control tower. The weather conditions were characterized by calm winds. During the approach, the pilot configured the aircraft with full flaps and low engine power.
During the landing roll, the aircraft initially made contact with the runway via the main landing gear, followed immediately by the nose gear. The aircraft briefly became airborne again before descending and striking the runway with the nose gear, causing the propeller to make contact with the ground. Despite the impact, the aircraft was able to taxi under its own power to the parking area.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft and the sequence of the landing touchdown. The pilot reported that no malfunctions had been observed prior to the incident.
Physical inspection of the EC-Flanding revealed significant damage to the nose gear assembly, specifically affecting the axle and the fork, as well as damage to the rim and tire. Additionally, the propeller blades sustained damage due to the impact with the runway surface.
Findings
- The accident was caused by a heavy landing characterized by a nearly zero pitch attitude upon touchdown.
- The aircraft's nose gear sustained structural damage due to the impact force.
- The pilot was uninjured during the event.