Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Strikes Trees After Bounced Landing and Go-Around (N7872G)

Turner, ME, US

On March 14, 2004, a Cessna 172L (registration N7872G) was involved in an aviation accident near Turner, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of speed/distance and the delayed aborted landing. A factor in this accident was the tail wind condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot struck trees after a bounced landing and subsequent go-around on a 2,104-foot asphalt runway. The airplane had no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions.

Accident Sequence

The student pilot was attempting to land on runway 30, which is 2,104 feet long and 50 feet wide, surfaced with asphalt. His first approach was high, prompting a go-around. On the second approach, the airplane touched down farther down the runway than planned. The airplane bounced, and the student pilot initiated an aborted landing. The airplane began to climb normally but struck the tops of trees located beyond the departure end of the runway.

Witness Observation

A witness observed the airplane after it bounced back into the air. According to the witness, the pilot lowered the nose and appeared to be attempting to land again. The airplane then disappeared from the witness's view, followed by the sound of increasing engine power.

Aircraft Examination

Examination of the airplane revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions.

Weather Information

At the time of the accident, winds reported at an airport located about 9 miles south of the accident site were from 150 degrees at 9 knots, with gusts to 15 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Mar 2004 Cessna 172L accident near Turner, ME?

A student pilot struck trees after a bounced landing and subsequent go-around on a 2,104-foot asphalt runway. The airplane had no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Mar 2004 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N7872G, at Turner, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's misjudgment of speed/distance and the delayed aborted landing. A factor in this accident was the tail wind condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040419X00480. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.