On 14 Feb 2008, a Cessna 172P operated by Delta Connection Academy was involved in an aviation accident near Gainesville, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 13 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot reported a hard landing in a Cessna 172P during a solo cross-country flight, resulting in damage to the nose landing gear, propeller, and firewall.
Incident Summary
A student pilot flying a Cessna 172P solo on a cross-country flight reported a hard landing after entering the airport traffic pattern. According to the pilot, the airplane was configured for landing and engine power was reduced to idle on the final leg of the approach. During the landing, the airplane porpoised and landed hard, causing damage to the nose landing gear, propeller, and firewall.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane. The flight was conducted solo, and the pilot was the sole occupant.