Incident Overview
On 12 September 2007 at 1415 UTC, a Cessna 152 (registration G-BNKS) was involved in an incident during a solo training flight at Sleap Airfield in Shropshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1979 and powered by a single Lycoming O-235-L2C piston engine, sustained damage to its propeller and engine shock-loading. The student pilot, aged 19 with 24 hours of total flying experience (all on type), was uninjured.
Flight History
The student pilot was conducting circuit training on Runway 36, an asphalt runway measuring 775 meters in length and 18 meters in width. The surface wind was from 350 degrees at 10 knots. The training session began with an instructor on board, and the student completed several successful circuits and landings. The instructor then assessed that the student was ready for solo flight and monitored the subsequent flight.
The student completed the first two solo circuits with touch-and-go landings, which the instructor deemed satisfactory. On the third landing, the student initiated a late flare, resulting in the aircraft touching down in a level attitude. The aircraft bounced, and a series of bounces developed during which the propeller struck the runway. The aircraft came to a stop on the runway, and the student pilot shut down the engine.
Damage and Outcome
The incident resulted in damage to the propeller and shock-loading of the engine. No injuries were reported. The aircraft was stopped on the runway following the propeller strike.