On July 29, 1989, a Cessna 172M (registration N9598H) was involved in an aviation accident near Carson City, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent profile during the final approach, resulting in a nose-gear first touchdown and subsequent porpoising. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot failed to manage sink rate during a crosswind approach, resulting in a nose-gear first touchdown and multiple porpoising events before regaining control.
What happened
The aircraft was operating at the conclusion of a cross-country flight when it entered the final approach phase for landing. During this segment, the student pilot identified the presence of a crosswind condition. In an attempt to correct the alignment and descent profile, the pilot applied control inputs. However, approximately 10 feet above the runway surface, the aircraft's sink rate increased unexpectedly.
The aircraft subsequently touched down on its nose wheel rather than the main landing gear. Following initial contact, the aircraft porpoised several times along the runway surface. The pilot eventually regained full control of the aircraft after these events.
Probable cause
the student pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent profile during the final approach, resulting in a nose-gear first touchdown and subsequent porpoising.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Jul 1989 Cessna 172M accident near Carson City, NV?
A student pilot failed to manage sink rate during a crosswind approach, resulting in a nose-gear first touchdown and multiple porpoising events before regaining control.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Jul 1989 Cessna 172M accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Jul 1989 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N9598H, at Carson City, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the student pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent profile during the final approach, resulting in a nose-gear first touchdown and subsequent porpoising.
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