What happened
On 15 March 2012, a PIPER PA-2-181 was completing a cross-country flight involving several stops at EBST and EBKH. Upon returning to its home base at Grimbergen Airfield (EBGB), the pilot attempted a landing on Runway 19. During the approach, the aircraft maintained a relatively flat attitude. Following the initial touchdown, the aircraft bounced twice. During the second bounce, the pilot applied full power to stabilize the aircraft, but the engine failed to respond immediately. Consequently, the aircraft impacted the ground on its nose wheel, causing the nose landing gear to collapse and the propeller to strike the ground.
The pilot, who was alone on board, exited the aircraft without any injuries. However, the aircraft sustained notable damage, including a bent engine mount, a damaged propeller, and a crushed exhaust system.
The investigation
The AAIU(Be) examined the flight sequence, the pilot's experience, and the mechanical performance of the engine. The investigation focused on the transition from the first bounce to the final impact and the pilot's decision-making process. Investigators also looked into the engine's delayed response to the rapid throttle movement and the pilot's level of experience with this specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to properly flare the aircraft during touchdown, combined with improper elevator inputs to manage the subsequent bounces and a delayed decision to execute a go-around.
- The pilot's limited experience, particularly with the PIPER PA-28 model, contributed to the inability to manage the landing parameters effectively.
- A rapid opening of the throttle likely caused a temporary delay in engine response, preventing the pilot from recovering during the second bounce.
- Psychological factors, including potential overconfidence and haste due to an exceeded estimated time of arrival, may have influenced the pilot's actions.