What happened
On 3 July 2006, a Piper PA-28-180 Cherokee, registration G-AZYF, was conducting a private flight from Land's End Airport to Scilly Isles (St Mary’s) Airport. During the approach to Runway 09, the pilot performed a right-hand orbit to maintain separation from another aircraft. While attempting to correct a position slightly south of the centerline, the pilot deployed a third stage of flaps to increase the descent rate and airspeed reduction.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft was traveling at approximately 75 kt, which was 5 kt above the intended speed. The landing was heavy, and the aircraft bounced multiple times, reaching a height of roughly 10 ft. During this sequence, the aircraft struck a small ridge or pothole on the grass portion of the runway. This impact caused the aircraft to veer right, eventually exiting the runway area and coming to rest near the edge of Runway 18.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's flight path and the physical damage sustained during the incident. Air Traffic Control (ATC) observed the aircraft bouncing several times before the loss of control. Post-incident inspections of G-AZYF revealed significant damage to the nose leg, the nosewheel fairing, and the propeller. Additionally, the engine mount and heater box were damaged, and the engine itself had sustained shockloading.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to use full flap settings resulted in a steep and fast approach.
- The aircraft landed with excessive speed and a heavy attitude.
- The primary cause of the nosewheel collapse was the aircraft striking an uneven surface (a ridge or pothole) on the grass runway, which led to the loss of directional control and subsequent impact on the nose gear.