What happened
On November 8, 2023, at approximately 21:30 UTC, a Piper PA-A38-112, registration LV-OLZ, was conducting a local training flight at the Aeroclub Casilda in the province of Santa Fe. After successfully completing three approach and landing circuits under visual meteorological conditions, the pilot attempted a fourth landing. During this final approach, the pilot noted that the airspeed had exceeded the recommended 70 knots.
Upon contacting the grass runway, the aircraft bounced. During the subsequent second contact, the nose gear struck the ground with enough force to cause it to collapse, resulting in the aircraft veering to the left. The impact caused significant damage to both the propeller and the nose landing gear. No injuries were reported among the crew.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's credentials, and the environmental conditions at the time of the event. The Piper PA-A38-112 was found to be in a fully airworthy condition, with a valid airworthiness certificate and maintenance performed according to the manufacturer's schedule. The pilot held a valid Class 2 Medical Certificate and was a private pilot with approximately 40 flight hours.
Meteorological data indicated favorable flying conditions, with visibility of 15 kilometers, no significant weather phenomena, and light winds of 4 knots. The investigation also reviewed the flight manual and regulatory guidelines regarding approach speeds and recovery techniques for bounced landings.
Findings
- The approach was conducted at a speed exceeding the limits established in the aircraft flight manual.
- The nose gear collapse and subsequent aircraft damage were caused by the impact with the ground following an initial bounce during the landing phase.