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Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Loses Control After High-Speed Landing Bounce (N7140G)

Cumming, GA, US

On November 6, 1987, a Cessna 172K (registration N7140G) operated by Vendyl M. Reynolds was involved in an aviation accident near Cumming, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper landing flare resulting in a bounce, followed by an inappropriate attempt to stop the aircraft via a ground loop at excessive airspeed, which led to a loss of directional control and collision with trees. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot bounced twice during landing, attempted to stop a high-speed aircraft by ground looping, and veered off the runway into trees.

What happened

The student pilot reported that the airplane contacted the runway during the landing flare and bounced twice. After regaining contact with the pavement, the pilot realized the airspeed was too high for the remaining runway length. In an attempt to stop the aircraft, the pilot tried to ground loop it. The airplane subsequently veered off the side of the runway and impacted trees.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the events leading up to the impact. The pilot's report indicated a loss of directional control following the bounce and the subsequent attempt to decelerate via a ground loop maneuver at excessive speed.

Findings

Contributing factors included the high airspeed at touchdown and the decision to attempt a ground loop to stop the aircraft rather than continuing down the runway or executing a go-around. The terrain impact resulted from the loss of control during this maneuver.

Probable cause

The student pilot's improper landing flare resulting in a bounce, followed by an inappropriate attempt to stop the aircraft via a ground loop at excessive airspeed, which led to a loss of directional control and collision with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Nov 1987 Cessna 172K accident near Cumming, GA?

A student pilot bounced twice during landing, attempted to stop a high-speed aircraft by ground looping, and veered off the runway into trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Nov 1987 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N7140G, operated by Vendyl M. Reynolds, at Cumming, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's improper landing flare resulting in a bounce, followed by an inappropriate attempt to stop the aircraft via a ground loop at excessive airspeed, which led to a loss of directional control and collision with trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32471. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.