No fatalities

Student Pilot's First Solo Flight Results in Nose Gear Collapse (N6369H)

Zephyrhills, FL, US

On November 12, 1987, a Cessna 152 (registration N6369H) operated by Topp OF Tampa Airport was involved in an aviation accident near Zephyrhills, FL. No fatalities were reported. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During her first solo flight, a student pilot performed touch-and-go landings. After a low approach and bounce, the aircraft touched down on the nose landing gear, causing it to collapse.

Flight Activity

The student pilot completed six dual touch-and-go landings with an instructor. Subsequently, she departed to perform three touch-and-go landings for her first solo flight.

Approach and Landing

According to the instructor pilot, the approach to the first landing appeared to be low. After touchdown, the aircraft bounced. The pilot then flared the aircraft.

Collapse and Outcome

Following the flare, the aircraft touched down on the nose landing gear. This caused the nose landing gear to collapse. The aircraft then slid to a stop. The instructor observed the sequence and reported that the approach was low. The bounce and subsequent flare preceded the nose gear touchdown that led to the collapse. No other details about the aircraft or occupants were provided.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Nov 1987 Cessna 152 accident near Zephyrhills, FL?

During her first solo flight, a student pilot performed touch-and-go landings. After a low approach and bounce, the aircraft touched down on the nose landing gear, causing it to collapse.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Nov 1987 Cessna 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Nov 1987 involved a Cessna 152, registration N6369H, operated by Topp OF Tampa Airport, at Zephyrhills, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32584. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.