On December 26, 2003, a Cessna 172R (registration N26486) operated by Pdk Flight Academy was involved in an aviation accident near Atlanta, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare resulting in a hard landing. A factor is lack of total experience. 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 his first unsupervised solo flight, a student pilot landed hard on runway 20L, veered left into grass, and collapsed the nosegear. He reported descending fast and landing flat. No mechanical issues were noted.
Accident Summary
A student pilot conducting his first unsupervised solo flight experienced a hard landing on runway 20L. After touchdown, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway surface and onto the grass. The impact caused the nosegear to collapse.
Pilot Report and Flight History
The student pilot reported that during the final approach, he was descending rapidly and subsequently landed the airplane "flat." He stated that the airplane then veered off the runway. A review of the pilot's logbook indicated that he had accumulated a total of 15 flight hours over a period of one year prior to the accident.
Aircraft Condition
The student pilot reported no flight control or mechanical problems before the accident. No other issues were noted.
What happened in the 26 Dec 2003 Cessna 172R accident near Atlanta, GA?
During his first unsupervised solo flight, a student pilot landed hard on runway 20L, veered left into grass, and collapsed the nosegear. He reported descending fast and landing flat. No mechanical issues were noted.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Dec 2003 Cessna 172R accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Dec 2003 involved a Cessna 172R, registration N26486, operated by Pdk Flight Academy, at Atlanta, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper flare resulting in a hard landing. A factor is lack of total experience.
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