CHI96LA153

Factual narrative

On May 3, 1996, at 1748 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-38, N2364N, registered to Lafayette Aviation, was substantially damaged during landing in Lafayette, Indiana. The solo student pilot reported no injuries. The local, instructional flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. In her written statement, the pilot reported that she flew final approach at 70 knots and when she landed the airplane "it bounced up to a considerable height." During the recovery she "let it sink before flaring." On the second touchdown, the nose gear collapsed. The propeller impacted the runway and the nose of the airplane sustained substantial damage. Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction. In her written statement, the pilot reported that she flew final approach at 70 knots, and when she landed the airplane, 'it bounced up to a considerable height.' During the recovery, she 'let it sink before flaring.' On the second touchdown, the nose gear collapsed. The propeller impacted the runway, and the nose of the airplane sustained substantial damage. Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database (Pre-2008 Archive) Retrieved: 2026-02-12