On October 7, 2000, a Cessna 172H (registration N3715R) operated by Elizabeth S. Cossaboon was involved in an aviation accident near Hilo, HI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An inadvertent pilot-induced porpoise resulting from the pilot's improper landing flare and inadequate power management. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During her first solo flight, a student pilot porpoised three times on landing after decreasing engine power too soon. Post-landing inspection revealed a bent firewall.
Incident Overview
A student pilot experienced a hard landing and porpoised three times during her third landing on her first solo flight. Witnesses observed the aircraft touch down hard and subsequently porpoise before coming to a stop.
Pilot Report
The student pilot reported that during the initial touchdown, she decreased engine power too soon for the flare and hesitated too long. She stated that she should have increased engine power thereafter but forgot what to do.
Aircraft Damage
During a subsequent airframe inspection, a bent firewall was discovered. No other damage was reported.
Pilot Experience
The student pilot had accumulated approximately 29 hours of total flight time at the time of the incident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Oct 2000 Cessna 172H accident near Hilo, HI?
During her first solo flight, a student pilot porpoised three times on landing after decreasing engine power too soon. Post-landing inspection revealed a bent firewall.
Were there any fatalities in the 7 Oct 2000 Cessna 172H accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Oct 2000 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N3715R, operated by Elizabeth S. Cossaboon, at Hilo, HI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
An inadvertent pilot-induced porpoise resulting from the pilot's improper landing flare and inadequate power management.
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