What happened
On the morning of January 25, 2014, a Cessna 152, registered as RP-C8835, departed from the Omni Aviation Complex at Clark Air Base, Pampanga. The flight was a solo high-altitude training mission intended for a student pilot undergoing Commercial Pilot License training with Omni Aviation Corporation. Prior to the solo flight, the pilot had completed a dual instruction flight to Loakan Airport, performing two touch-and-go landings at the destination.
While approaching Runway 09 at Loakan Airport, the air traffic control tower informed the pilot that the wind was blowing from 080 degrees at 8 knots. During the final approach, the aircraft was struck by a sudden, strong gust of wind. In an attempt to stabilize the aircraft and cushion the impact, the pilot applied additional power. However, immediately following touchdown, the nosewheel tire assembly collapsed. The aircraft became immobilized on the runway due to the structural damage to the nose landing gear, requiring ground crew assistance to move the plane to a parking ramp. There were no injuries reported, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
The AAIIB examined the circumstances surrounding the landing at Loakan Airport, specifically focusing on the aircraft's behavior during the wind gust and the pilot's response. The investigation reviewed the pilot's recent flight history, noting the recent dual training session, and analyzed the specific runway characteristics of Loakan Airport, particularly the upslope nature of Runway 09.
Findings
- The student pilot lacked sufficient landing experience at Loakan Airport, which features an upslope runway configuration when landing on Runway 09.
- While the pilot attempted to use power to mitigate the effect of the wind, the pilot was late in pulling the yoke to break the glide, which directly led to the failure of the nose tire assembly upon touchdown.
Safety action
- It is recommended that student pilots undergo specific training with a rated Flight Instructor involving take-offs and landings on upslope runways, as well as recovery techniques from low-level off-landings.
- Operators should review training syllabi to ensure they include specific lessons on controlling aircraft during high-altitude solo flights, particularly regarding the unique challenges of Loakan Airport.
- A review of the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) regarding restrictions and limitations for Loakan Airport is recommended.