Propeller strike during landing at Kolín Airport

Casualties unknown • LKKO, CZ

A Cessna 182R experienced a propeller strike after the pilot attempted to use nosewheel contact to slow the aircraft during a high-speed landing.

What happened

On January 30, 2005, a Cessna 182R, registration OK-LKP, operated by AEROTAXI, s.r.o., was performing a VFR flight from Kunovice to Kolín. During the landing phase on runway 2/21R, the pilot in command (PIC) realized that the aircraft's approach speed was too high, which would result in an excessively long landing roll.

In an attempt to reduce the aircraft's speed using ground braking effects, the pilot applied nose-down elevator control. This maneuver caused the aircraft to make initial contact with the runway surface on the nosewheel. Consequently, the propeller struck the ground. Due to the sustained high speed, the pilot determined that the aircraft risked overrunning the end of the runway and decided to execute a go-around. Upon takeoff, the pilot noted heavy vibrations in the engine compartment, but was able to complete a short circuit and land safely.

There were no injuries to the pilot or the single passenger on board, though the propeller sustained damage.

The investigation

The ÚZPLN investigation established that the aircraft was well-maintained, with a valid annual inspection completed in November 2004. The pilot held a valid PPL with SEP rating and a current medical certificate. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with visibility exceeding 10 km and light winds. The investigation also confirmed that the runway surface conditions and the airport's lack of AFIS services were not contributing factors to the event.

Probable cause

The incident was caused by a high landing speed during the flare phase, leading the pilot to intentionally force the nosewheel into the runway surface to induce braking.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-01-30 C-182R accident near LKKO, CZ?

A Cessna 182R experienced a propeller strike after the pilot attempted to use nosewheel contact to slow the aircraft during a high-speed landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-01-30 involved a C-182R, registration OK-LKP, at LKKO, CZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The incident was caused by a high landing speed during the flare phase, leading the pilot to intentionally force the nosewheel into the runway surface to induce braking.

Investigation report by the Czech Air Accidents Investigation Institute (UZPLN). Original record: https://uzpln.gov.cz/incident/59. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Ustav pro odborne zjistovani pricin leteckych nehod (UZPLN), Czech Republic.

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