Casualties unknown

Hard Landing and Multiple Bounces During Landing Attempts Lead to Return Flight and Subsequent Damage Discovery (N2746C)

Cheswold, DE, US

On August 1, 1999, a Cessna 172R (registration N2746C) was involved in an aviation accident near Cheswold, DE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare and improper recovery from a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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

During landing on Runway 27, the pilot executed a go-around after a high approach, then a hard touchdown on the second attempt caused multiple bounces. After a second go-around, the pilot returned to the departure airport. Post-flight examination revealed structural damage to the main gear, floorboards, firewall, and propeller.

Event Summary

A pilot experienced difficulties while attempting to land at the destination airport. The first approach to Runway 27 was deemed high, prompting a go-around. On the second attempt, the airplane landed long, floating about halfway down the runway before touching down hard. The hard landing caused the airplane to bounce into the air and then settle back with a second hard touchdown. The airplane continued bouncing several more times until the pilot added full power and executed another go-around.

Pilot Account

After the second go-around, the pilot climbed the airplane to approximately 3,000 feet above ground level and returned to the departure airport. During the return flight, the pilot reported no vibrations, and the airplane performed normally except for a slightly slower airspeed. No other anomalies were noted.

Aircraft Examination

A post-flight examination of the airplane revealed damage to the main landing gear, the main cabin floorboards, and buckling of the firewall. Additionally, the propeller exhibited a 2-inch rearward curling. The extent of the damage indicates significant stress on the airframe during the hard landings and bounces.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Aug 1999 Cessna 172R accident near Cheswold, DE?

During landing on Runway 27, the pilot executed a go-around after a high approach, then a hard touchdown on the second attempt caused multiple bounces. After a second go-around, the pilot returned to the departure airport. Post-flight examination revealed structural damage to the main gear, floorboards, firewall, and…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Aug 1999 involved a Cessna 172R, registration N2746C, at Cheswold, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper flare and improper 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/20001212X19620. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.