What happened
On 22 July 2002, a Cessna 172N, registration G-GZDO, was conducting a local navigation exercise when it returned to Elstree Aerodrome. The aircraft was on final approach to Runway 26, with winds recorded at 260° at 10 knots. During the approach, the pilot noted the presence of a faster aircraft following closely behind on the same final. This trailing aircraft performed a go-around just before the Cessna 172N reached the runway.
As the aircraft touched down, the pilot performed an early flare, which resulted in the aircraft sinking and bouncing on the runway surface. Due to the perceived proximity of the other aircraft, the pilot did not attempt a go-around but instead tried to manage the bounce to facilitate a second landing. During the second bounce, the nose of the aircraft lowered, leading to contact between the propeller and the runway. The impact caused substantial damage to the propeller, the nose landing gear, and the forward fuselage. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The investigators examined the sequence of the landing and the pilot's decision-making process regarding the trailing traffic. The investigation established that the pilot's attention had been diverted by the presence of the faster aircraft on the final approach.
Findings
- The pilot's attention was distracted by the presence of a faster aircraft following on the final approach.
- An early flare caused the aircraft to sink and bounce upon touchdown.
- The pilot's decision not to initiate a go-around was influenced by the potential proximity of the trailing aircraft.