Accident Details
On 9 September 2006 at 1044 hours UTC, a Piper PA-38-112 Tomahawk, registered G-LFSD, was involved in an accident at Hawarden Airport, North Wales. The aircraft was conducting a training flight with two crew members on board, comprising a student pilot and an instructor. No passengers were carried. The wind was from 160 degrees at 13 knots.
Flight History
The training exercise included several circuits with touch-and-go landings on Runway 23. During approximately the third or fourth circuit, the aircraft experienced a downdraft on approach. The student pilot compensated with increased power, but the touchdown was heavier than normal. After landing, the aircraft began to drift right, prompting the instructor to take control, regain the centreline, and continue the touch-and-go. The aircraft responded normally and climbed away.
On a subsequent circuit, another touch-and-go landing was planned. The student executed a good approach and landing without encountering wind shear. As the aircraft touched down, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing the propeller to strike the runway. The aircraft skidded on its nose before coming to rest on the runway. Both occupants were uninjured and exited the aircraft without difficulty.
Damage and Assessment
The accident resulted in damage to the nose wheel, engine, propeller, fuselage, and wings. The instructor considered that the landing gear collapse was due to damage caused by the previous heavy landing.
No probable cause was stated by the investigating authority.