Casualties unknown

Pilot Bounces Three Times During Landing, Executes Go-Around, Diverts to Alternate Airport (N5259K)

Grass Valley, CA, US

On July 11, 1987, a Cessna 172P (registration N5259K) was involved in an aviation accident near Grass Valley, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During a pleasure flight, the pilot made a go-around due to being too high. On the second approach, he was high and fast, resulting in three bounces before adding power to go around. He landed at another airport and discovered damage.

Flight History

The accident occurred during a pleasure flight. While attempting to land at the intended airport, the pilot executed a go-around after determining he was too high on the initial approach.

Landing Attempts

On the second approach, the pilot noted that he may have been a little high and fast. During the landing, the aircraft bounced three times before the pilot added power to initiate another go-around. The pilot then took off and decided to land at another airport.

Damage Discovery

After landing without further incident at the alternate airport, the pilot realized the aircraft had been damaged. There were no mechanical failures or malfunctions reported at the time of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jul 1987 Cessna 172P accident near Grass Valley, CA?

During a pleasure flight, the pilot made a go-around due to being too high. On the second approach, he was high and fast, resulting in three bounces before adding power to go around. He landed at another airport and discovered damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jul 1987 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N5259K, at Grass Valley, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31558. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.