NTSB Factual Report

On August 10, 2004, about 0930 mountain standard time, a Piper PA-28-181, N8414E, experienced a hard landing and veered off the runway at the Scottsdale Airport, Scottsdale, Arizona. Sabena Airline Training Center was operating the rental airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The student pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured; the airplane sustained substantial damage. The local instructional flight originated from Scottsdale about 0855. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan had not been filed.

In a written statement, the student pilot reported that he was attempting a touch-and-go practice takeoff and landing on runway 21, after completing several earlier in the flight. On final approach he configured the airplane with 40 degrees of wing flaps, and aligned the airplane on runway centerline. During the landing flare, the airplane's nose pitched up excessively, and he opted to execute a go-around. Before he could apply power, the nose dropped, and the propeller blades impacted the runway surface. The airplane bounced down the runway, veering to the left. The airplane continued off of the runway into a gravel area, and the pilot applied brake pressure, bringing the airplane to a stop. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.

During the accident the airplane incurred damage to the firewall.

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's misjudged flare, resulting in a stall and hard landing, and his failure to maintain directional control. The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing is a contributing factor.