What happened
On 7 July 2002, a Piper PA-28-140, registration G-BBEF, was conducting a training flight when it experienced a landing accident at Caernarlon Aerodrome, Wales. After departing from Hawarden Aerodrome, the student pilot was unable to establish radio communication with local air traffic control or Caernarfon Radio. Consequently, the pilot joined the overhead pattern at 1,300 feet agl to assess the wind conditions.
Following two circuits to determine wind direction and strength, the pilot prepared for a landing on Runway 26. During the approach, two previous go-arounds had been performed due to a vehicle crossing the runway and a change in surface wind. On the subsequent attempt, the pilot configured the aircraft with full flaps for a short field landing. While the approach appeared stable, the aircraft experienced a sudden drop as the throttle was retarded over the threshold. The aircraft initially touched down on the main gear before bouncing back into the air. When the pilot attempted to apply power for a go-around, the aircraft struck the runway a second time, likely on the nose gear, causing the gear to collapse. The aircraft slid along the runway before coming to a stop.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The inquiry focused on the sequence of the landing attempt and the mechanical impact on the aircraft. The investigation established that the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, the engine frame, and the nose gear.