On January 3, 2007, a Cessna 172S (registration N364MA) operated by Langa Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Alton, IL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper execution of the landing flare, which resulted in a hard bounce and subsequent loss of directional control during the aborted landing attempt. 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.
A student pilot experienced two hard bounces during her first solo landing attempt, aborting the touch-and-go and veering off the runway to strike a sign.
What happened
The student pilot was conducting her first solo flight when she attempted her initial landing. During the flare phase, she reported pulling up too early, which caused the aircraft to bounce hard and balloon above the runway surface. She tried to recover from the first impact, but the airplane bounced a second time. Consequently, she aborted the landing maneuver, causing the aircraft to depart the left side of the runway. The airplane then struck a runway sign, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the accident was the pilot's premature flare during the landing phase. This error caused excessive lift and subsequent bounces that prevented a controlled touchdown. The decision to abort the landing after the second bounce resulted in the aircraft leaving the paved surface and colliding with ground infrastructure.
Probable cause
The student pilot's improper execution of the landing flare, which resulted in a hard bounce and subsequent loss of directional control during the aborted landing attempt.
What happened in the 3 Jan 2007 Cessna 172S accident near Alton, IL?
A student pilot experienced two hard bounces during her first solo landing attempt, aborting the touch-and-go and veering off the runway to strike a sign.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jan 2007 Cessna 172S accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jan 2007 involved a Cessna 172S, registration N364MA, operated by Langa Air Services, at Alton, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's improper execution of the landing flare, which resulted in a hard bounce and subsequent loss of directional control during the aborted landing attempt.
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