What happened
On July 31, 2010, a student pilot was conducting solo flight training in a Cessna F152, registration CS-AYG, at the Tires Aerodrome in Cascais. The pilot, who had accumulated 25:30 hours of flight experience, was performing circuit training following a successful period of dual instruction.
After completing an initial successful touch-and-go, the pilot attempted a second approach to runway 17. During this maneuver, the pilot executed a late flare, causing the nose gear to strike the asphalt first. This impact caused the propeller to strike the runway surface and resulted in a series of bounces. In an attempt to stabilize the aircraft, the pilot applied takeoff thrust to continue the approach; however, the propeller had sustained significant damage, preventing the aircraft from reaching the required 1,000-foot circuit altitude. The pilot declared an emergency and successfully landed the aircraft without further incident.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation focused on the sequence of the landing and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid ATPL(A) student authorization and a valid medical certificate. The aircraft, operated by OMNI – Aviação e Tecnologia, Lda., was found to have all required documentation in order and had complied with its approved maintenance program. Meteorological conditions at the time of the incident were favorable, with calm winds, high visibility, and clear skies.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the initial impact of the nose gear and propeller with the runway following a series of bounces.
- A contributing factor was the late execution of the flare during the approach.
- The impact caused significant structural damage, including a bent nose gear, a deformed engine mount, and a damaged propeller.
- The pilot's decision to apply power after the impact was an attempt to manage the bounces, but the damaged propeller rendered the aircraft unable to maintain circuit altitude.