Synopsis
On 22 October 2002 at 0730Z, a Cessna 172M (registration ZS-MDF) was involved in an incident at FAWC (Worcester) during circuit training. The pilot had recently been re-cleared on type but had been unable to fly solo for five weeks due to poor weather and maintenance problems. On the day of the incident, the pilot practiced steep turns and stalls in the general flying area before returning to FAWC for circuit practice.
Sequence of Events
The first circuit was uneventful. During the second circuit, the pilot allowed the aircraft to bounce on landing. The pilot then opened the throttle and went around, completing a normal circuit. After landing, a post-flight inspection revealed that the nose wheel oleo had a significant leak. The aircraft was withdrawn from service pending inspection by an Aircraft Maintenance Organisation (AMO).
Findings
The pilot held a valid private pilot license and was endorsed for the aircraft type. The weather was light and variable wind less than 3 knots, good visibility, temperature +14°C, and no cloud. There were no injuries; the pilot was the only person on board. The aircraft damage was not specified in the report. The probable cause as determined by the investigation is stated below.