Casualties unknown

Hard Landing Sequence Leads to Nose Gear Separation and Propeller Strike (N2793G)

Metaline Falls, WA, US

On July 29, 1996, a Cessna 182B (registration N2793G) was involved in an aviation accident near Metaline Falls, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper flare and improper recovery from a bounced landing. The inadvertent porpoise was a related factor. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During landing, the pilot allowed the aircraft to float, then forced it onto the runway in a series of hard touchdowns, causing the nose wheel to separate and the strut to collapse.

Incident Description

During the landing rollout, the pilot initially touched down but allowed the aircraft to become airborne again. He then attempted to force the aircraft back onto the runway, resulting in a hard impact that caused the aircraft to become airborne a second time.

Sequence of Events

After the second liftoff, the pilot once again pushed the aircraft onto the runway. This touchdown was severe enough to separate the nose wheel from the strut. The aircraft then continued sliding on the strut for approximately 200 feet before the strut dug into the terrain and collapsed.

Final Outcome

With the nose gear collapsed, the aircraft continued to slide on the bent propeller until it came to a stop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jul 1996 Cessna 182B accident near Metaline Falls, WA?

During landing, the pilot allowed the aircraft to float, then forced it onto the runway in a series of hard touchdowns, causing the nose wheel to separate and the strut to collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jul 1996 involved a Cessna 182B, registration N2793G, at Metaline Falls, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper flare and improper recovery from a bounced landing. The inadvertent porpoise was a related factor.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06386. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.