What happened
On 26 March 2026, a Diamond DA40 NG, registration 9M-LIZ, was involved in a propeller strike incident at Malacca International Airport. The event is believed to have occurred at approximately 0830 LT during a solo navigation flight. The incident likely took place during a bounced touch-and-go landing.
Following the event, the aircraft completed two additional flight sorties without any immediate detection of damage. The first student pilot returned to Senai International Airport (WMKJ) without reporting any abnormalities, and the second student pilot also completed a local flight without noticing any defects during pre- or post-flight inspections. The damage was only identified later that day by a third student pilot during a routine pre-flight inspection.
The investigation
AAIB Malaysia is currently conducting an investigation into the incident. The investigation has established that the aircraft was airworthy and maintained according to regulations at the time of the occurrence. The student pilots involved were properly authorized, medically fit, and sufficiently rested for their respective flights.
Initial inspections by a Licensed Aircraft Engineer revealed significant damage to the tip of the propeller, including noticeable scratch marks. Following consultations with the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), it was determined that the aircraft requires extensive repairs. The investigation is also examining the adherence to flight and maintenance procedures.
Findings
- The propeller strike is believed to have been caused by a bounced touch-and-go landing.
- The damage was not detected during the immediate post-flight inspections of the first two sorties.
- The aircraft requires the replacement of several major components, including the propeller, gearbox, flywheel, and engine mounting.
- No injuries were reported during the incident.