Incident Overview
On 14 June 2023 at 04:58 UTC, a Piper PA-34-220T (Seneca IV), registration OE-FST, experienced a collapse of the nose landing gear after landing on Runway 22 at Bratislava Airport (LZIB). The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The aircraft came to a stop on the runway.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft, manufactured by Piper Aircraft Corp. in 1995, was a six-seat, twin-engine, all-metal low-wing monoplane with retractable tricycle landing gear. Its maximum takeoff weight was 1999 kg. The aircraft had accumulated 2,817 hours and 8 minutes total time since new (TTSN) and 2,210 total landings. The most recent 100-hour periodic maintenance on the airframe and engines was performed on 17 October 2022.
Flight Sequence
The pilot, a 73-year-old Slovak national holding a valid flight crew license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, departed from Piešťany Airport (LZPP) at 04:35 UTC for a VFR flight to Bratislava. After contacting Štefánik Tower, the pilot received clearance for a straight-in approach and landing on Runway 22. When the landing gear was extended, three green indicator lights illuminated. The pilot reported on final approach and was cleared to land.
At 04:58, the pilot made a smooth touchdown on Runway 22. After the nose landing gear contacted the runway, the aircraft traveled straight for approximately 150 meters, then began to veer to the right. The pilot corrected with rudder input. Shortly after, the nose of the aircraft dropped, and the landing rollout continued on the main landing gear only for another 300 meters. The pilot managed to keep the aircraft on the runway and stopped approximately 1 meter from the right edge.
Damage
The aircraft was substantially damaged. Examination by the investigation commission revealed damage to the forward lower composite skin and all propeller blades.
Pilot Information
The pilot had approximately 15,100 total flight hours, with 110 hours on type. His last proficiency check for the multi-engine piston/land with instrument rating (MEP(L)/IR) was on 26 July 2023, valid until 31 July 2023. He held a valid Class 1 medical certificate.
Conclusion
The event involved a collapse of the nose landing gear after touchdown. The probable cause is not stated in the available report.