What happened
On 6 August 2014, a Reims Cessna F172P Skyhawk, registration G-SBAE, was conducting a private flight involving circuit practice at Blackpool Airport, Lancashire. During the approach for a planned touch-and-go maneuver, the aircraft's touchdown was unstable. The aircraft bounced twice upon contact with the runway surface. Following the second bounce, the nosewheel made firm contact with the ground, causing the propeller to strike the runway.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination of the aircraft revealed that the engine had sustained shock-loading. Additionally, there was visible damage to the nose landing gear and the propeller.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a series of bounces during the landing phase.
- The propeller strike occurred as a direct result of the nosewheel making firm contact with the runway after the initial bounces.
- The pilot noted that a go-around should have been initiated following the first bounce to prevent the subsequent impact.