PA-28 pilot reported failing to notice on the pre-flight and post-flight inspections that the propeller was damaged.

Date: 2026-01 · Aircraft: PA-28 Cherokee/Archer/Dakota/Pillan/Warrior · Phase: ground

Anomalies: aircraft-equipment-problem-critical|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy

Synopsis

PA-28 pilot reported failing to notice on the pre-flight and post-flight inspections that the propeller was damaged.

Narrative

While doing my pre-flight; I did not notice the prop damage from the previous flight hour. I did not run my hand along the entire prop on both sides. I looked at the prop at a very quick glance without truly looking; observing; and interpreting the condition of the prop. This was my biggest mistake. One thing I noticed is when I was making a left hand turn on the way to taxing; the aircraft was not as responsive as usual. I had to put my foot on the left brake rather than just using the left rudder control. I thought this was because of the winds. I did not notice any engine roughness or unusual RPM fluctuations. I flew the aircraft in the traffic pattern. Post-flight;I chalked the front landing gear. This is where my second mistake was; I did not do a thorough post flight or noticed a damage prop. I did not observe any issues with the airplane as the flight went smooth. I consulted with my CFI; told him about the flight; filled out my log book; and left. My CFI called me minutes later; informing me the prop was damaged. I immediately came back to the airport and then went out and looked at the aircraft. This was the first time observing the bent prop. In the future; I will do a better pre and post flight inspection. I will do this by following my check list thourhgly.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.