Casualties unknown

1990-06-21: Cessna 140 (N72122) — Monzingo, Esther S. — Chico, CA

Chico, CA, US

On June 21, 1990, a Cessna 140 (registration N72122) operated by Monzingo, Esther S. was involved in an aviation accident near Chico, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IMPROPERLY LEVELED OFF, FAILED TO CORRECT THE ENSUING PORPOISE, TOOK IMPROPER REMEDIAL ACTION, AND IMPROPERLY USED THE RUDDER AND NORMAL BRAKES. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During landing practice, a student pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing led to loss of directional control, causing the airplane to exit the runway and sever the right main landing gear.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting a flight to practice takeoffs and landings. On the first landing attempt, the pilot leveled off too high, causing the airplane to bounce and enter a porpoise. The student pilot then improperly applied the normal brakes and rudder and failed to maintain directional control. The airplane subsequently departed the runway surface, severing the right main landing gear in the process.

Training Background

The investigation revealed that the student pilot had previously received training on recovery techniques from bounced landings. Despite this instruction, the student pilot did not execute a proper recovery during the incident.

Aircraft Damage

As a result of the runway excursion, the right main landing gear was separated from the aircraft. No other details regarding the extent of damage or any other parts of the airplane were provided.

Sequence of Events

  • The student pilot aimed to practice multiple takeoffs and landings.
  • During the first landing, the flare was initiated at an excessive height.
  • The aircraft bounced upon touchdown and began to porpoise.
  • The pilot's use of brakes and rudder was not appropriate for the situation.
  • Directional control was lost, leading to the aircraft veering off the runway.
  • The right main landing gear was severed as the airplane left the paved surface.

The exact location, time of day, weather conditions, and involvement of air traffic control were not specified in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23462. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.