Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Bounces Landing, Nose Gear Collapses on Runway 6 (N734YU)

Kissimmee, FL, US

On July 16, 1999, a Cessna 172N (registration N734YU) operated by David W. Johnson was involved in an aviation accident near Kissimmee, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare and recovery from a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 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 student pilot, confused by runway instructions, executed a high and fast approach to runway 6, resulting in a bounced landing. The nose wheel assembly collapsed during the second bounce, causing propeller strike and firewall damage.

Incident Overview

A student pilot received instructions to call a three-mile left base for runway 6. The pilot was initially confused by the runway assignment but continued to the airport. After establishing visual contact with runway 6, the pilot found the aircraft was too high and too fast for a normal landing.

Approach and Landing

Despite the excessive altitude and speed, the student pilot continued the approach. The aircraft bounced on the runway upon landing. To recover from the bounce, the pilot added power. However, the airplane then touched down on the nose wheel.

Post-Impact Damage

The nose wheel assembly collapsed during the second bounce, and the nose wheel tire was flattened. Subsequent inspection showed that the propeller blade tips had impacted the runway surface, causing damage. Additionally, the engine firewall sustained damage.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the aircraft.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jul 1999 Cessna 172N accident near Kissimmee, FL?

A student pilot, confused by runway instructions, executed a high and fast approach to runway 6, resulting in a bounced landing. The nose wheel assembly collapsed during the second bounce, causing propeller strike and firewall damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jul 1999 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N734YU, operated by David W. Johnson, at Kissimmee, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper flare and recovery from a bounced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19156. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.