Summary
On 2 March 2013, a Piper PA-28R-200 (N9325N) operated on a private flight from Biggin Hill to Sibson Aerodrome. The aircraft experienced a heavy landing on Runway 15, resulting in the collapse of the nose landing gear. No occupants were injured and the pilot attributed the event to a handling error.
Flight Details
The aircraft, manufactured in 1969, was powered by a single Lycoming IO-360-C1C piston engine. The private flight carried one pilot and one passenger. The pilot, aged 51, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 275 hours total flying experience, with 28 hours on type. In the 90 days prior, he had flown 37 hours, including 28 hours in the last 28 days.
Accident Description
The flight originated from Biggin Hill en route to Sibson as part of a multiple-leg journey from its home base near Cambridge. Weather conditions were fine with a calm or very light surface wind. The pilot conducted a normal approach to Runway 15 at Sibson Aerodrome but made a heavy landing. There had been no unusual landing gear indications or warnings prior to touchdown. The hard landing resulted in the nose landing gear collapsing.
Damage and Injuries
The primary damage was to the nose landing gear. Both the pilot and passenger reported no injuries.
Cause
According to the pilot's report submitted to the Aircraft Accident Report Form, the hard landing was attributed to a handling error.