Accident Overview
On 16 November 2016 at 1815 UTC, a Piper PA-32R-301T (registration N551TT) sustained propeller damage and engine shock-loading during a training flight at Blackbushe Airport, Surrey. The aircraft was manufactured in 1997 and powered by a Lycoming TIO-540 piston engine. The flight was part of a night rating qualification and was conducted under dark and rainy conditions with good visibility and calm surface wind.
Flight and Sequence
The pilot and an instructor were on board. After a short local navigation exercise, the pilot joined the circuit and flew an approach to Runway 25, which has a tarmac surface, a PAPI set at 3.1° for a displaced threshold, and a landing distance available of 1,059 m. The pilot performed a normal touchdown and, while rolling along the runway for a touch-and-go, asked the instructor to raise the flaps. The instructor complied, though surprised by the request. At that moment, the pilot raised the landing gear, triggering the gear unsafe warning. The pilot sensed the aircraft pitching up and lowered the nose, causing the propeller to strike the ground.
Instructor Intervention and Landing
The instructor took control, lifted the aircraft into the air, re-selected the landing gear down, and after allowing time for it to lock, landed on the remaining runway. The engine was shut down immediately, and ATC was advised. The instructor later commented that he did not want to risk a go-around with a damaged propeller.
Crew and Damage
The commander held a Private Pilot’s Licence, was 54 years old, and had 367 total flying hours (112 on type). Neither the pilot nor the instructor sustained injuries. Damage was limited to the propeller and engine shock-loading.
Investigation
The information source was the Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot, published in the AAIB Bulletin 4/2017. No probable cause was stated in the source.