On August 7, 1998, a Cessna 172P (registration N116FR) operated by Sparta Aviation Inc was involved in an aviation accident near West Milford, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing and the instructor's inadequate supervision of the flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing on runway 24, a student pilot bounced and initiated a go-around with right rudder and full right aileron. The flight instructor took control but was unable to gain altitude before striking a fence post. No pre-impact abnormalities were found.
Landing Attempt
A student pilot (SP) with 30 hours of flight time was conducting a landing on runway 24. The aircraft touched down, bounced, and veered toward the right side of the runway.
Go-Around and Collision
The SP initiated a go-around, applying right rudder and full right aileron. The flight instructor then assumed control of the aircraft. The airplane was unable to gain sufficient altitude and struck a metal fence post located approximately 100 feet to the right of the runway. The SP later stated that "...for unknown reason the airplane didn't reply to the controls as if something was holding it and prevented its climb..."
Examination
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact abnormalities with the airframe or engine. The flaps were observed in the zero-degree position. Winds reported at a nearby airport were from 180 degrees at 6 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Aug 1998 Cessna 172P accident near West Milford, NJ?
During landing on runway 24, a student pilot bounced and initiated a go-around with right rudder and full right aileron. The flight instructor took control but was unable to gain altitude before striking a fence post. No pre-impact abnormalities were found.
Were there any fatalities in the 7 Aug 1998 Cessna 172P accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Aug 1998 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N116FR, operated by Sparta Aviation Inc, at West Milford, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing and the instructor's inadequate supervision of the flight.
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