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Student Pilot's First Solo Flight Ends in Hard Landing and Aircraft Fire (N757FY)

Hillsboro, OR, US

On June 14, 2002, a Cessna 152 (registration N757FY) was involved in an aviation accident near Hillsboro, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An improper flare during the landing. Not performing a proper recovery from a bounced landing was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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 a student pilot's first solo flight, the aircraft experienced a hard landing, bounced twice, and the nose gear collapsed on the third touchdown. The pilot exited safely, but a fire later consumed the aircraft.

Accident Overview

A student pilot conducted the first solo flight. During the initial landing, the aircraft touched down hard and bounced two times. On the third touchdown, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide to a stop.

Damage and Fire

The firewall sustained damage at the upper attachment mount due to the nose gear collapse. Shortly after the pilot exited the aircraft, smoke was observed coming from the engine compartment. Within minutes, a fire erupted, completely consuming the aircraft.

Mechanical Status

No mechanical failures or malfunctions were reported with the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jun 2002 Cessna 152 accident near Hillsboro, OR?

During a student pilot's first solo flight, the aircraft experienced a hard landing, bounced twice, and the nose gear collapsed on the third touchdown. The pilot exited safely, but a fire later consumed the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Jun 2002 Cessna 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 152, registration N757FY, at Hillsboro, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An improper flare during the landing. Not performing a proper recovery from a bounced landing was a factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020618X00919. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.