What happened
On April 3, 2007, a Diamond DA 40 Diamond Star TDI, registered F-GUVK, was conducting a solo local flight at Montpellier Méditerranée airport. The aircraft, operated by a flight school, was being flown by a student pilot with only 15 minutes of solo experience. Following a pre-planned route, the pilot prepared for a downwind approach to runway 31R. At the suggestion of air traffic control, the pilot transitioned to a base leg for runway 31L to shorten the approach.
During the initial final approach, the pilot determined the aircraft was too high and executed a go-around. Attempting a second approach to the same runway, the pilot again perceived the aircraft to be above the desired glide path. Air traffic controllers noted a very high rate of descent during this second approach. The aircraft struck the runway surface with significant force and bounced four times before coming to a stop. Although the pilot taxied back to the parking area without immediate awareness of any damage, a mechanic later discovered significant impact damage to the propeller blades, the engine mount, the propeller shaft, and the shock absorber attachment.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the flight path management during the two approach attempts and the pilot's decision-making process. Investigators examined the flight sequence, noting that the pilot had previously experienced similar bouncing issues during training. The investigation also considered the pilot's experience level and the specific maneuvers performed during the final approach to runway 31L.