History of Flight
The aircraft, a Piper PA-28-181 Cherokee Archer II registered G-CCAV, was returning from Manston where a normal landing had been completed. The pilot flew a visual approach to Runway 04 in CAVOK weather conditions with a surface wind of 090°/3 kt. The approach ended with a gentle touchdown on the nose wheel, followed by a series of bounces. During these bounces, the nose leg was deflected, bending the carburettor mounts and restricting movement of the throttle cable.
The pilot recalled the approach as normal except that the throttle would not close as she flared, and would not open when she attempted a go-around. She stated she was neither high nor fast. The visual room controller on duty reported that the approach was normal until a late flare resulted in a gentle touchdown on the nose wheel. As the main wheels contacted the ground, the aircraft bounced moderately. The nose came down again, and bounces of increasing magnitude followed. On the fourth bounce, the controller heard the propeller strike the runway and alerted the fire crew. After three more bounces, the aircraft remained on the ground and came to a halt. During the final bounce, the controller feared the aircraft would nose over onto its back.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the aircraft revealed no malfunction that would explain the initial throttle problem reported by the pilot. However, the later difficulty in throttle operation was consistent with the damage sustained during the bounce sequence. The damage included severe disruption to the engine compartment and nose leg, rendering the aircraft beyond economic repair. The pilot, the sole occupant, was uninjured. The pilot held a Private Pilot's Licence and Night Rating, with 128 hours total flying experience, 9 of which were on type. Recurrent training, including further circuit practice, was given.