On July 1, 2000, a Cessna 172H (registration N1688F) was involved in an aviation accident near Friendly, MD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's inadequate compensation for winds that resulted in his failure to maintain runway alignment and a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot on his first solo flight experienced a gust of wind on short final, causing loss of alignment and a hard landing with side load, resulting in substantial airframe damage. Winds were 010° at 5 knots.
Incident Overview
A student pilot, conducting his first solo flight, completed a traffic pattern and returned for landing on Runway 06. During the final approach, he reported encountering a gust of wind that disrupted his alignment with the runway. The subsequent landing was hard and imposed a 'side load' on the landing gear.
Post-Landing Observations
After taxiing, a bystander observed wrinkling of the airplane's skin. A detailed examination later revealed substantial damage to the airframe. The student pilot stated that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane prior to the incident.
Weather Conditions
The reported winds at the time of the accident were from 010 degrees at 5 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 Jul 2000 Cessna 172H accident near Friendly, MD?
A student pilot on his first solo flight experienced a gust of wind on short final, causing loss of alignment and a hard landing with side load, resulting in substantial airframe damage. Winds were 010° at 5 knots.
Were there any fatalities in the 1 Jul 2000 Cessna 172H accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jul 2000 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N1688F, at Friendly, MD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the student pilot's inadequate compensation for winds that resulted in his failure to maintain runway alignment and a hard landing.
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