Casualties unknown

1996-01-14: Cessna 152 (N24311) — Chesterfield, MO

Chesterfield, MO, US

On January 14, 1996, a Cessna 152 (registration N24311) was involved in an aviation accident near Chesterfield, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot misjudged the flare and performed an improper recovery from a bounced landing. A factor was the inadequate ground instruction concerning recovery from a bounced 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

During his first unsupervised solo, a student pilot porpoised after a hard landing, lost directional control, and struck a hangar after attempting a go-around.

Incident Details

The student pilot was conducting his first unsupervised solo flight, practicing touch-and-go landings. On the first landing, the aircraft touched down hard and began to porpoise. After the third bounce, the pilot attempted to set an approach attitude but lost directional control on the ground. The airplane was heading toward a row of hangars, prompting the pilot to attempt a takeoff. However, the aircraft was unable to clear the hangars and struck them at the roof line, coming to a stop. Parts of the wheel rim were found on the runway.

Instructor's Remarks

The student pilot's instructor reported that instruction concerning porpoising had been discussed with the student prior to the flight.

Student's Account

The student pilot recalled receiving instruction about porpoising, but said it had not been discussed in detail. He noted that he had been told to set an approach attitude but was uncertain exactly what that meant.

Damage

The aircraft struck the hangars at the roof line. The extent of damage to the airplane and hangars is 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/20001208X05112. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.