Piper PA-38-112 Tomahawk, G-LFSD, 9 September 2006
Piper PA-38-112 Tomahawk, G-LFSD
Summary:
The flight was planned as a training exercise to include a number of circuits with touch and go landings on Runway 23 at Hawarden. The wind speed was 160º at 13 kt. On about the third or forth circuit the aircraft encountered a downdraft, the student successfully counteracted the increased descent rate with power and regained the approach path. As the student flared the aircraft prior to touchdown it suddenly sank and the landing was heavier than normal. The instructor took control, regained the centreline and continued with the touch and go. The aircraft climbed away and continued into the circuit as normal. Another touch and go landing was planned and the student carried out a good approach and landing. No wind shear was experienced on this occasion. As the aircraft touched down the nose landing gear collapsed and the propeller struck the runway. The aircraft skidded on its nose before coming to rest on the runway. Both occupants were uninjured and exited the aircraft without difficulty. The instructor considered that the landing gear collapse was due to damage caused on the previous heavy landing.
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