Accident
On 29 September 2008, at 1129 hours UTC, a Cessna 152 aircraft, registration G-BTDW, sustained damage to its nose landing gear and propeller during a landing on Runway 25 at Carlisle Airport. The aircraft was being flown by a student pilot on a solo training flight as part of his Private Pilot’s Licence course. There were no passengers on board, and the pilot reported no injuries.
Flight History
The pilot had successfully completed three dual circuits before being cleared for solo circuits. The weather was reported as good, with surface wind from 270° at 13 knots, visibility in excess of 10 km, a few clouds at 1,000 ft, and scattered clouds at 1,900 ft. A large rain shower was in the vicinity of the airfield.
After completing a normal circuit, the pilot established the aircraft on final approach to Runway 25. The aircraft was correctly configured for landing and the approach was flown similarly to previous approaches. During the latter stages of the approach, the wind became gusty, which the pilot attributed to the proximity of the rain shower. The aircraft touched down in what appeared to be a normal fashion, but then became airborne again. The pilot attempted to land, but the aircraft bounced a second time. On the third touchdown, the nose landing gear collapsed and the propeller contacted the runway surface.
Post-Accident Actions
Following the collapse, the pilot turned off the electrical and fuel systems and vacated the aircraft through the left door. The Airfield Rescue and Fire Fighting Service attended immediately.
Conclusion
The pilot assessed the cause of the accident as a combination of a sudden gust of wind and a lighter than usual aircraft causing the bounce. Despite having been taught to apply full power and go-around from such a situation, the pilot believed that a safe landing was still possible.