Casualties unknown

1993-12-04: Cessna 152 (N5325P) — Millbrook, NY

Millbrook, NY, US

On December 4, 1993, a Cessna 152 (registration N5325P) was involved in an aviation accident near Millbrook, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper use of controls during landing, which resulted in an excessive speed touchdown and hard landing. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot experienced a hard landing and bounce during his first solo flight, applying power while airborne and drifting left into a tree.

What happened

The accident occurred during the takeoff phase of a flight involving a student pilot undertaking his first solo operation. The aircraft touched down on the runway with excessive speed, resulting in a hard landing primarily on the main gear. Following this impact, the airplane became airborne again and struck the pavement for a second time.

After the second touchdown, the aircraft bounced once more. While still airborne during this bounce, the pilot applied power to the engine. The airplane began to climb but drifted to the left of the runway centerline. Consequently, the left wing struck a tree.

Findings

The sequence of events indicates that the initial landing was performed with excessive speed, leading to a hard impact. The subsequent application of power while the aircraft was still bouncing and airborne contributed to the loss of directional control and the drift off the runway.

Probable cause

the pilot's improper use of controls during landing, which resulted in an excessive speed touchdown and hard landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13907. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.