Casualties unknown

Student Pilot's Approach and Landing Incident During Solo Cross-Country Flight (N6338F)

Fulton, NY, US

On July 4, 2002, a Cessna 172 (registration N6338F) was involved in an aviation accident near Fulton, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a misaligned, hard 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 a solo cross-country flight, a student pilot experienced a hard landing after ballooning and reducing power, resulting in a flat touchdown with the nose not aligned with the runway.

Incident Overview

A student pilot, on a solo cross-country flight, configured the airplane for landing. According to the investigation, the student deployed the flaps early and flew a steeper approach angle than intended. To correct the descent rate and reach the touchdown zone, the pilot added power. This addition of power caused the airplane to balloon.

Sequence of Events

After the ballooning event, the student reduced the power. This action resulted in the airplane dropping and landing flat. At touchdown, the airplane was turned to the left, and its nose was not aligned with the runway centerline.

Outcome

The investigation documented the landing characteristics but did not specify any injuries, damage, or further consequences beyond the described landing attitude.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Jul 2002 Cessna 172 accident near Fulton, NY?

During a solo cross-country flight, a student pilot experienced a hard landing after ballooning and reducing power, resulting in a flat touchdown with the nose not aligned with the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Jul 2002 involved a Cessna 172, registration N6338F, at Fulton, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a misaligned, hard landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020715X01128. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.