On August 21, 2001, a Cessna 172S (registration N764SP) operated by Bessemer Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Gadsden, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare technique during landing, which resulted in a hard touchdown and subsequent structural damage to the nose landing gear. 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.
During a solo cross-country flight, the pilot executed a landing flare at approximately 10 to 12 feet above the runway. The main gear impacted hard, followed immediately by a severe impact from the nose wheel, which resulted in the nose gear separating from the aircraft.
What happened
The pilot reported that during the final phase of a solo cross-country flight, he was established on the final approach path over the runway. As he prepared for touchdown, he reduced engine power while maintaining his airspeed. At an altitude of approximately 10 to 12 feet above the runway surface, he initiated the flare maneuver to reduce descent rate.
Upon initial contact with the runway, the main landing gear struck the pavement with significant force. This hard impact was immediately followed by a severe downward motion that caused the nose wheel to hit the ground violently. The force of this secondary impact resulted in the complete separation of the nose landing gear from the aircraft structure.
Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare technique during landing, which resulted in a hard touchdown and subsequent structural damage to the nose landing gear.
What happened in the 21 Aug 2001 Cessna 172S accident near Gadsden, AL?
During a solo cross-country flight, the pilot executed a landing flare at approximately 10 to 12 feet above the runway. The main gear impacted hard, followed immediately by a severe impact from the nose wheel, which resulted in the nose gear separating from the aircraft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Aug 2001 involved a Cessna 172S, registration N764SP, operated by Bessemer Aviation, at Gadsden, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper flare technique during landing, which resulted in a hard touchdown and subsequent structural damage to the nose landing gear.
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