What happened
On 22 January 2010, a Reims Cessna F172M Skyhawk, registration G-BCZM, was performing a private flight at Bodmin Airfield in Cornwall. During the final stages of a practice approach to Runway 31, the aircraft was flying at approximately 20 feet with full flaps and an airspeed of 65 knots. While approaching the up-sloping runway, the aircraft experienced an unexpected descent.
In an attempt to prevent a stall and maintain airspeed, the pilot applied full power and lowered the nose. To stop the descent, the pilot then pulled back on the control column. This maneuver resulted in the aircraft striking the runway firmly on the nosewheel before bouncing back into the air. The pilot completed the circuit and landed on the grass without further incident. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft's engine mount was conducted following the event. The investigation identified a fracture in the lower cross member of the engine mount. Engineering analysis suggested that this structural failure was likely the result of the impact force generated by the nosewheel-first landing.