Synopsis
On 9 September 2001, a Piper PA-28R-200-2, registration G-AZOG, sustained damage to its nose landing gear casting during a landing at Stapleford Airfield, Essex. The aircraft, manufactured in 1971 and powered by one Lycoming IO-360-C1C engine, was operating on a private flight from Southend. The pilot and a single passenger were on board, and neither reported injuries.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The Piper PA-28R-200-2 (G-AZOG) was a four-seat, single-engine, retractable-gear aircraft. The pilot, aged 39, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 295 total flying hours, including 7 hours on type. In the 90 days preceding the accident, he had flown 4 hours; in the last 28 days, 2 hours.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft was landing on the grass Runway 28 at Stapleford Airfield after a flight from Southend. The pilot reported that, after a normal approach, the power was reduced and the aircraft began to sink. The resulting touchdown occurred prior to the location of the displaced landing threshold of Runway 28. Consequently, the aircraft ran over the intersection of the grass surface with the tarmac surface of Runway 22L.
Damage and Findings
After landing, the aircraft was flown back to Southend. It was noted that the nose oleo extension was low. A detailed engineering inspection later found that the nose landing gear oleo housing casting was cracked. It was considered that this had occurred as a result of the landing at Stapleford.
No additional details regarding the cause were provided in the source.