Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Nose-Over During Solo Training Touchdown (N48241)

Richmond, IN, US

On March 29, 1985, a Cessna 152 (registration N48241) was involved in an aviation accident near Richmond, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the landing flare, which resulted in a stall and hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot experienced a hard landing and nose-over during a solo training flight after the aircraft bounced, stalled, and veered off the runway.

What happened

During a solo training flight, the student pilot attempted to land the aircraft but allowed it to bounce upon initial touchdown. Following the bounce, the aircraft became airborne again while still several feet above the runway surface. As the pilot attempted to recover, the aircraft entered a stall condition.

The subsequent landing was hard, resulting in significant structural damage. The nose gear strut collapsed under the impact forces. Following the collapse, the aircraft veered sharply to the left side of the runway before finally coming to a stop after nosing over.

Probable cause

the student pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the landing flare, which resulted in a stall and hard landing.

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Mar 1985 Cessna 152 accident near Richmond, IN?

A student pilot experienced a hard landing and nose-over during a solo training flight after the aircraft bounced, stalled, and veered off the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Mar 1985 involved a Cessna 152, registration N48241, at Richmond, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the student pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the landing flare, which resulted in a stall and hard landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35880. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.