What happened
On August 13, 2015, a Piper PA-28-181, registration HB-PMR, was performing a private VFR flight from Ecuvillens to Bressaucourt. During the approach to runway 27 at Ecuvillender Aerodrome, the pilot executed a direct approach with a slight tailwind. As the aircraft touched the ground, it experienced a bounce.
Surprised by the rebound, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure. During this maneuver, the pilot applied full power and manipulated the flaps. However, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient altitude and began to deviate left of the runway centerline. The aircraft continued at a low altitude over the tarmac until it struck the sliding doors of a maintenance hangar. The impact caused significant damage to the aircraft and the hangar structure, including the destruction of several doors and damage to other aircraft stored inside. The two occupants of the aircraft sustained grievous injuries.
The investigation
The investigation by the SUST examined the flight sequence, the aircraft's mechanical state, and the pilot's actions. Investigators found that the pilot, who was primarily trained on a Cessna 172, applied procedures from that aircraft type to the Piper PA-28-181. Specifically, the pilot retracted the flaps fully before repositioning them to the first notch, a technique used in the Cessna but destabilizing in this context.
Technical examination of the Piper PA-28-181 revealed no mechanical failures. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's carburetor lacked a fuel boost pump, which contributed to a slight delay in engine power response during the rapid throttle advancement. Furthermore, the investigation highlighted that the occupants were wearing only lap belts rather than three-point harnesses, which may have impacted the severity of their injuries.
Findings
- The approach was conducted with excess energy.
- The pilot experienced confusion regarding the correct recovery actions following the initial bounce.
- The pilot was distracted by the manual manipulation of the flap lever.
- A lateral deviation occurred because the pilot's attention was focused on the cockpit controls rather than the flight path.
- The engine's delayed response to the throttle advancement prevented the aircraft from climbing effectively.