On May 15, 1984, a Cessna 120 (registration N76450) operated by Gary Barbato was involved in an aviation accident near Larchwood, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate control during landing, specifically releasing back pressure on the stick after bouncing, which resulted in a greater bounce and runway excursion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot landed long and fast, releasing back pressure during a bounce which caused the aircraft to excursion off the runway and nose over. The pilot recommends dual training for inexperienced aviators.
What happened
The aircraft nosed over after bouncing off the runway during the landing phase of flight. According to the pilot, the initial touchdown occurred further down the runway than intended and at a higher speed than desired. This situation caused the pilot to feel apprehensive about the approach.
When the aircraft bounced upon impact with the surface, the pilot released back pressure on the control stick. This action resulted in a greater bounce height and led to an excursion off the runway. The pilot subsequently applied brakes, but the aircraft ultimately nosed over.
Safety message
The pilot recommends that dual training be provided for inexperienced pilots who have had little recent flying experience.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate control during landing, specifically releasing back pressure on the stick after bouncing, which resulted in a greater bounce and runway excursion.