Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Multiple Bounces During Landing, Nosewheel Damage Found (N739RF)

Cameron Park, CA, US

On July 30, 1994, a Cessna 172N (registration N739RF) operated by Marty Keane was involved in an aviation accident near Cameron Park, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper use of the elevator control during the landing flare. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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 three bounces during landing, with the third touchdown keeping the aircraft on the runway. Post-landing taxi became difficult; inspection revealed a blown nosewheel tire, broken strut, and buckled firewall.

Landing Sequence

The pilot reported that he approached high over the runway numbers with full flaps deployed. He maintained the descent attitude until initiating a flare and reducing airspeed. During the flare, he stated that he inexplicably pushed forward on the control wheel to bring the aircraft to the ground. On initial touchdown, the aircraft bounced back into the air. The pilot attempted another flare, but the aircraft bounced again, reaching an estimated altitude of 10 to 15 feet. A third landing attempt resulted in the aircraft remaining on the runway after touchdown.

Post-Landing Difficulties

After turning off the runway onto the taxiway, the pilot noted that the aircraft became difficult to taxi. He attributed this difficulty to the need to taxi uphill to his destination on the airport.

Inspection Findings

A subsequent inspection of the aircraft revealed damage to the nosewheel: the tire was blown, the nosewheel strut was broken at the top attachment point, and the engine firewall was buckled.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jul 1994 Cessna 172N accident near Cameron Park, CA?

A pilot reported three bounces during landing, with the third touchdown keeping the aircraft on the runway. Post-landing taxi became difficult; inspection revealed a blown nosewheel tire, broken strut, and buckled firewall.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jul 1994 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N739RF, operated by Marty Keane, at Cameron Park, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper use of the elevator control during the landing flare.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01797. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.