What happened
On August 17, 2012, a Cirrus SR20, registration OE-DDD, was performing a VFR flight from Dubrovnik to Split Airport. During the initial approach to runway 23, the aircraft experienced a bounced landing. The pilot reported that the aircraft was initially pushed downward by windshear, causing the rear wheels to make a heavy contact with the runway, which subsequently caused the aircraft to bounce.
Following the initial bounce, the nose wheel struck the runway, and the aircraft swayed to the left. The pilot immediately initiated a go-around procedure, applying full power. During the low-altitude climb, the aircraft flew over the airport apron where other aircraft were parked. After reaching a safe altitude and completing a second approach, the pilot successfully landed the aircraft on the second attempt. Upon taxiing to the general aviation apron, the pilot discovered damage to the propeller blades, the engine, and the nose wheel.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's technical condition, the pilot's actions, and the prevailing meteorological conditions. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance logs, which showed the aircraft was in proper working order and had no maintenance irregularities. The pilot's license was found to be valid, and there was no evidence of impairment. Security camera footage from the airport was also reviewed, confirming the aircraft's flight path over the taxiway and apron following the failed landing attempt.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a wrong estimate during the landing phase, which led to the bounced touchdown and subsequent impact with the runway.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine, and nose wheel due to the impact.
- While the pilot noted the presence of windshear during the first touchdown, meteorological data indicated that wind conditions were relatively constant and favorable for the successful second landing attempt.
- The aircraft was fully airworthy and properly maintained prior to the event.