No fatalities

Engine Failure Simulation Leads to Nose-Over on Landing (N5520H)

Mendham, NJ, US

On November 24, 1987, a Cessna 152 (registration N5520H) was involved in an aviation accident near Mendham, NJ. 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 a training flight, an instructor simulated an engine failure. The student completed emergency landing procedures, but the engine faltered during go-around, leading to a nose-over after touchdown. A post-accident fire was extinguished.

Incident Overview

A flight instructor and student pilot were conducting a training exercise when the instructor simulated an engine failure. The instructor reduced the throttle to idle, prompting the student to execute the emergency landing checklist. After the student applied power for a go-around, the engine briefly restarted for approximately 5 to 10 seconds before ceasing operation again.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft touched down on the main landing gear, followed by the nose wheel. The nose wheel then dug into the sod, causing the aircraft to flip over. The aircraft was being operated in conditions conducive to carburetor icing at the time of the incident.

Post-Accident Response

Following the accident, the pilots extinguished a post-accident fire that had ignited. No further details about injuries or aircraft damage were provided in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Nov 1987 Cessna 152 accident near Mendham, NJ?

During a training flight, an instructor simulated an engine failure. The student completed emergency landing procedures, but the engine faltered during go-around, leading to a nose-over after touchdown. A post-accident fire was extinguished.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Nov 1987 Cessna 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Nov 1987 involved a Cessna 152, registration N5520H, at Mendham, NJ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32627. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.