On June 6, 1987, a Cessna 172N (registration N5240E) was involved in an aviation accident near Marion, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to flare at the proper altitude, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent loss of control due to multiple bounces. 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.
A pilot reported ballooning on final approach, resulting in a hard nosewheel touchdown. The aircraft bounced three additional times before the pilot regained control.
What happened
The pilot stated that during the final approach phase, he failed to initiate the flare maneuver at the appropriate altitude. This delay resulted in the nosewheel striking the runway surface with significant force. Following this initial impact, the aircraft lifted back into the air, a phenomenon described as ballooning. The pilot attempted to execute a second flare to arrest the descent, but this effort was unsuccessful. Consequently, the aircraft bounced vertically three additional times before the pilot was able to regain full control of the flight path.
The investigation
The investigation relied primarily on the pilot's account of the event. No mechanical failures or external factors were cited as contributing to the loss of control during the bounces.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to flare at the proper altitude, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent loss of control due to multiple bounces.
What happened in the 6 Jun 1987 Cessna 172N accident near Marion, IN?
A pilot reported ballooning on final approach, resulting in a hard nosewheel touchdown. The aircraft bounced three additional times before the pilot regained control.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jun 1987 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N5240E, at Marion, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to flare at the proper altitude, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent loss of control due to multiple bounces.
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