What happened
On 13 June 2003, a Piper PA-28-181 Cherokee Archer II, registration G-CCAV, was conducting a private flight returning to Lydd Airport in Kent. After completing a routine landing at Manston, the pilot initiated a visual approach to Runway 04 under clear weather conditions with light winds.
During the landing phase, the aircraft experienced a series of bounces. The pilot reported that the touchdown was gentle on the nose wheel, but the aircraft subsequently bounced multiple times. The tower controller observed that the flare was late, leading to the initial nose wheel contact. As the bounces increased in magnitude, the propeller made contact with the runway surface. The pilot noted a significant fear of the aircraft flipping onto its back during the final bounce before the aircraft eventually came to a stop. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the throttle control and the sequence of the landing. Investigators examined the aircraft's engine compartment and landing gear. While the pilot initially reported that the throttle would not close during the flare and would not open during a potential go-around attempt, the physical examination of the aircraft provided clarity on the source of the malfunction.
Findings
- The investigation established that the deflection of the nose leg during the series of bounces caused the bending of the carburettor mounts.
- This structural deformation resulted in the restriction of the throttle cable movement, explaining the reported control difficulties.
- No pre-existing engine malfunctions were found that could account for the throttle issues prior to the landing sequence.
- The aircraft sustained severe damage to the engine compartment and nose leg, rendering it beyond economic repair.