Investigation number
198500129
Occurrence date
Location
Nullagine
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Hard landing
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The pilot planned to arrive at his destination 10 minutes before his estimate of last light. However, after deviating around rain showers and conducting an aerial inspection of a prospecting site, the pilot's arrival was delayed until 10 minutes after last light. An approach was made to the unlit strip using the aircraft landing light for guidance. After flaring at about 15 feet agl the pilot waited for the touchdown but the aircarft stalled and struck the ground nosewheel first, collapsing the nosegear. Facilities were available at the departure aerodrome which would have allowed the pilot to obtain a weather forecast and an accurate time of last light. Despite the fact that the pilot had no night flying experience he choose to land the aircraft without requesting an emergency flare path to be laid.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
172
Registration
VH-DZA
Operation type
Private
Departure point
Limestone Station WA
Departure time
1800
Destination
Nullagine WA
Damage
Substantial