On May 27, 2003, a Cessna 172H (registration N1730F) operated by John F. Dalton was involved in an aviation accident near Council Bluffs, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Misjudgment of the landing flare by the pilot in command resulting in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a hard landing, the pilot lost control and the aircraft departed the runway, sustaining substantial damage including firewall wrinkling and propeller damage beyond repair.
Hard Landing and Loss of Control
The aircraft experienced a hard landing, after which the pilot lost directional control. The airplane subsequently departed the runway surface.
Damage Description
The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the event. Examination of the firewall revealed wrinkling consistent with a vertical impact to the nose landing gear. The propeller was damaged beyond repairable limits. The nose wheel steering linkage was found to be intact.
Pilot Report and Conditions
The pilot reported no malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident. Weather conditions at the airport included calm winds reported five minutes before the event.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 May 2003 Cessna 172H accident near Council Bluffs, IA?
During a hard landing, the pilot lost control and the aircraft departed the runway, sustaining substantial damage including firewall wrinkling and propeller damage beyond repair.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 May 2003 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N1730F, operated by John F. Dalton, at Council Bluffs, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Misjudgment of the landing flare by the pilot in command resulting in a hard landing.
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