No fatalities

Hard Landing and Runway Excursion During Training Flight (N8970G)

Frederick, MD, US

On June 11, 1997, a Cessna 182N (registration N8970G) was involved in an aviation accident near Frederick, MD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The private pilot's improper flare, and the certificated flight instructor's delayed decision to add power, which resulted in the subsequent hard landing. 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 a training flight, a private pilot flying from the right seat performed a short field landing that resulted in a hard landing. After going around, the CFI took control but the airplane veered off the runway.

Incident Overview

A private pilot and a certificated flight instructor (CFI) conducted a training flight. The private pilot, who had requested a right seat checkout because he served as safety pilot on instrument flights, operated the airplane from the right seat. The CFI occupied the left seat. According to a joint statement from both pilots, the private pilot assumed pilot-in-command responsibilities by agreement.

Landing Sequence

Upon arrival at the destination airport, the CFI directed the private pilot to perform a short field landing. During the final approach, the private pilot flared high. The CFI instructed the pilot to add power, but the airplane subsequently landed hard. The private pilot then applied power, causing the airplane to become airborne again.

Post-Go-Around and Outcome

The CFI then took control of the airplane and executed a landing. During the landing roll, the airplane veered off the runway.

Additional Details

The source provides no further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, damage, injuries, or environmental conditions. No probable cause is stated.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jun 1997 Cessna 182N accident near Frederick, MD?

During a training flight, a private pilot flying from the right seat performed a short field landing that resulted in a hard landing. After going around, the CFI took control but the airplane veered off the runway.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Jun 1997 Cessna 182N accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jun 1997 involved a Cessna 182N, registration N8970G, at Frederick, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The private pilot's improper flare, and the certificated flight instructor's delayed decision to add power, which resulted in the subsequent hard landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08220. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.