On May 21, 2005, a Cessna 172S (registration N860SA) was involved in an aviation accident near Port Huron, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot not performing a go-around and misjudging the flare leading to a 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.
A student pilot conducted a hard landing on Runway 28, resulting in substantial aircraft damage. The pilot opted not to execute a go-around despite being high on approach.
Incident Details
A student pilot experienced a hard landing on Runway 28, causing substantial damage to the aircraft. The incident occurred during a landing approach where the pilot assessed being high and reduced engine power to idle.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported maintaining an airspeed of 65 knots and anticipated touching down at the runway midpoint. However, upon reaching that point, the aircraft was still 30 to 50 feet above the runway. Instead of initiating a go-around, the pilot proceeded with the landing attempt. The pilot stated that rotating too soon and too excessively resulted in a higher landing speed. The aircraft landed hard and bounced, though directional control was maintained and the airplane came to a stop within the runway confines.
Conditions
Recorded wind at the airport was from 310 degrees at 5 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions during the flight.
What happened in the 21 May 2005 Cessna 172S accident near Port Huron, MI?
A student pilot conducted a hard landing on Runway 28, resulting in substantial aircraft damage. The pilot opted not to execute a go-around despite being high on approach.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 May 2005 involved a Cessna 172S, registration N860SA, at Port Huron, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot not performing a go-around and misjudging the flare leading to a hard landing.
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