Casualties unknown

Hard Landing Results in Nose Gear Collapse and Control Difficulties (N97883)

Auburn, AL, US

On June 14, 1992, a Cessna 172 (registration N97883) operated by Auburn University was involved in an aviation accident near Auburn, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER LANDING FLARE, AND HIS IMPROPER RECOVERY FROM A BOUNCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 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

A pilot reported experiencing a hard landing following a bounce and porpoise, leading to nose gear collapse, inadvertent power application, and loss of elevator control, requiring use of elevator trim for landing.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported that after takeoff, he remained in the traffic pattern to conduct touch and go landings. A final approach was flown at 65 knots with full flaps extended. He believed he was holding full up elevator control pressure when the airplane landed hard. The aircraft bounced and porpoised over onto the nose landing gear.

Inadvertent Power Application

The pilot stated that his hand was still on the throttle and he inadvertently applied power. The airplane became airborne again, and he noted a loss of elevator control.

Control and Landing

Elevator trim was used to fly the airplane around the traffic pattern for a final landing. The pilot successfully landed the aircraft using trim for pitch control.

Damage

Bent structure from the collapsed nose landing gear impinged on the cockpit control column, likely restricting elevator control movement.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jun 1992 Cessna 172 accident near Auburn, AL?

A pilot reported experiencing a hard landing following a bounce and porpoise, leading to nose gear collapse, inadvertent power application, and loss of elevator control, requiring use of elevator trim for landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jun 1992 involved a Cessna 172, registration N97883, operated by Auburn University, at Auburn, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER LANDING FLARE, AND HIS IMPROPER RECOVERY FROM A BOUNCED LANDING.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14775. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.