Accident Overview
On 26 July 2011 at 1512 UTC, a Reims Cessna F172N Skyhawk, registration G-BHMI, experienced a collapse of the nose landing gear while landing at Caernarfon Airport, Gwynedd. The aircraft was manufactured in 1980 and powered by a single Lycoming O-320-H2AD piston engine. The flight was conducted under a Private Pilot's Licence with only the commander on board. The pilot, aged 76, had a total flying experience of 350 hours, including 150 hours on type, with 12 hours in the last 90 days and 4 hours in the last 28 days. No injuries were reported.
Flight and Landing Sequence
The pilot had flown from Woodvale to Caernarfon, where Runway 26 was in use. The approach and first landing were described as heavy, causing the aircraft to bounce. The pilot initiated a go-around. The second landing was executed more satisfactorily, but during the landing roll, the nose landing gear collapsed, resulting in damage to the nosewheel and propeller.
Contributing Factors
According to the pilot's report and subsequent AAIB enquiries, the collapse of the nose leg was probably a consequence of damage sustained during the initial heavy touchdown. A possible contributory factor to the severity of that first touchdown was a reversal of wind direction during the final approach.