On December 20, 2005, a Cessna 150F (registration N8723S) was involved in an aviation accident near Poplar Grove, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision during the landing phase, specifically maintaining excessive speed and failing to flare properly, which resulted in a bounced landing and runway excursion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot bounced on final approach and landed hard off the runway, sustaining substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot cited poor technique and recommended being ready for a go-around.
What happened
The airplane sustained substantial damage after exiting the runway and impacting snow-covered terrain. According to the pilot's account, the aircraft was flown on final approach at an excessive speed and with insufficient flare. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced upward and drifted to the right side of the runway. The pilot continued forward until the aircraft left the paved surface and came to rest in the snow. The airplane was found right side up with a bent nose wheel.
Safety message
The pilot provided a safety recommendation emphasizing the need to be more prepared to execute a go-around when an approach becomes unstable or unsafe.
Probable cause
The pilot's improper decision during the landing phase, specifically maintaining excessive speed and failing to flare properly, which resulted in a bounced landing and runway excursion.