Cessna 172S Propeller Strike in Westminster, Maryland

No fatalities • Westiminster, MD, United States

A student pilot experienced a porpoising event during landing in a Cessna 172S, resulting in a propeller strike.

What happened

On January 26, 2008, a Cessna 172S, registration N65329, was participating in left closed traffic for landing at an airport in Westminster, Maryland. During the landing sequence, the student pilot flared the aircraft at too high an altitude and made a hard touchdown. This caused the airplane to begin porpoising down the runway. During the subsequent oscillations, the propeller struck the runway surface, causing the firewall to buckle.

There were no injuries resulting from this accident. The event was reported to the NTSB on February 29, 2008.

Probable cause

The improper flare performed by the student pilot.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationStudent pilot

Related events

Same aircraft

All Cessna 172 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jan 2008 Cessna 172S accident near Westiminster, MD?

A student pilot experienced a porpoising event during landing in a Cessna 172S, resulting in a propeller strike.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Jan 2008 Cessna 172S accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jan 2008 involved a Cessna 172S, operated by American Pilot Services, at Westiminster, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The improper flare performed by the student pilot.

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