Casualties unknown

Cessna 152 Nose Gear Failure During Landing Bounce (N95139)

San Jose, CA, US

On February 7, 1986, a Cessna 152 (registration N95139) operated by S&g Flight Service was involved in an aviation accident near San Jose, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive flare height during landing, which resulted in a bounce and subsequent separation of the nose gear. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna 152 experienced nose gear separation after bouncing on landing due to excessive flare height. The flight instructor took control and landed the aircraft on its nose cowling without further incident.

What happened

The accident involved a Cessna 152 that sustained significant damage after the nose landing gear separated during the landing phase. According to the factual narrative, the pilot flared the aircraft too high above the runway surface, causing it to bounce upon initial contact. During the subsequent second bounce, the structural integrity of the nose gear failed, leading to its separation from the airframe.

Following the mechanical failure, the flight instructor assumed control of the aircraft. The instructor successfully managed the landing on the nose cowling, bringing the aircraft to a stop on the runway surface. This incident highlights the risks associated with improper flare techniques during the final approach and touchdown phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's excessive flare height during landing, which resulted in a bounce and subsequent separation of the nose gear.

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Feb 1986 Cessna 152 accident near San Jose, CA?

A Cessna 152 experienced nose gear separation after bouncing on landing due to excessive flare height. The flight instructor took control and landed the aircraft on its nose cowling without further incident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Feb 1986 involved a Cessna 152, registration N95139, operated by S&g Flight Service, at San Jose, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's excessive flare height during landing, which resulted in a bounce and subsequent separation of the nose gear.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32878. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.