Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Bounce and Nose Gear Collapse During Landing Attempts (N1564E)

Charlottesville, VA, US

On March 10, 1985, a Cessna 172N (registration N1564E) operated by Dulles Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Charlottesville, VA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During approach in moderate turbulence, a pilot encountered excessive descent rate after retarding throttle to idle. The aircraft bounced and porpoised, leading to a go-around. On the second landing, after multiple bounces, the nose gear collapsed.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during an approach to land, the aircraft encountered moderate turbulence and variable winds. The pilot noted that the aircraft was low and fast, and therefore adjusted the power and extended flaps to 10 degrees, then 20 degrees.

Approach and First Landing Attempt

Crossing the threshold, the pilot retarded the throttle to idle, which was followed by an excessive rate of descent. After touchdown, the aircraft bounced and began to porpoise. Following the third bounce, with the throttle still closed, the pilot elected to go around and applied power to abort the landing.

Assessment and Go-Around

Once in the traffic pattern, the pilot realized there was damage to the aircraft and performed a fly-by for inspection. However, tower personnel could not verify the damage from their position.

Second Landing Attempt

On the second landing, the aircraft ballooned and bounced again. After several bounces, the nose gear collapsed, and the aircraft came to a stop on the runway.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Mar 1985 Cessna 172N accident near Charlottesville, VA?

During approach in moderate turbulence, a pilot encountered excessive descent rate after retarding throttle to idle. The aircraft bounced and porpoised, leading to a go-around. On the second landing, after multiple bounces, the nose gear collapsed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Mar 1985 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N1564E, operated by Dulles Aviation, Inc., at Charlottesville, VA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35854. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.