On June 18, 1988, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415C (registration N94037) was involved in an aviation accident near Steep Falls, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper flare during the touch-and-go maneuver, which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot practicing touch-and-go landings in an Ercoupe 415C executed a high flare resulting in a hard landing. The aircraft sustained damage upon impact with the runway surface.
The Ercoupe 415C departed to conduct practice touch-and-go maneuvers. A student pilot occupied the left seat and maintained control of the aircraft throughout the exercise. In the right seat sat a private pilot, who was listed as a pilot-rated passenger; both individuals were co-owners of the aircraft.
During the approach phase, the student pilot flared too high above the runway threshold. This excessive pitch attitude resulted in a hard landing on the runway surface.
The student pilot's improper flare during the touch-and-go maneuver, which resulted in a hard landing.