- A go-around is a standard manoeuvre when a pilot is not completely satisfied that the requirements are in place for a safe landing.
- The sooner a condition that warrants a go-around is recognised, the safer the manoeuvre will be.
A hard landing of a Cessna P206B at Monduran in Queensland is a reminder for pilots to conduct a go-around as soon as landing conditions appear unfavourable.
On 29 September 2012, the aircraft departed Gympie on a private flight to Monduran, carrying the pilot and four passengers. During the landing at Monduran, the pilot noted the windsock was indicating gusty wind conditions but still decided to land.
A go-around is a standard manoeuvre when a pilot is not completely satisfied that the requirements are in place for a safe landing.
During the landing, at about 10 feet above the runway, the Cessna was struck by a significant wind gust. The aircraft bounced and the pilot applied a small amount of power in an attempt to regain control. The aircraft was then struck by a second, more intense, wind gust before stalling and touching down hard on the nose landing gear. The pilot maintained control and the aircraft came to a stop.
Although no one was injured in the incident, the aircraft’s propeller, nose landing gear, and lower engine cowls were damaged.
The ATSB recommends pilots conduct a go-around as soon as landing conditions appear unfavourable. A go-around is a standard manoeuvre when a pilot is not completely satisfied that the requirements are in place for a safe landing.
The need for a go-around may occur at any stage during the approach and landing. However, the most critical go-around is one initiated very close to the ground. Consequently, the sooner a condition that warrants a go-around is recognised, the safer the manoeuvre will be.
Read the report: Hard landing involving Cessna P206B, VH-EGG, Monduran, Queensland, on 29 September 2012