No fatalities

1 Mar 2009: CESSNA 172N — CENTRAL FLYING SERVICE INC — Carlisle, AR

Carlisle, AR, United States

On 1 Mar 2009, a CESSNA 172N operated by CENTRAL FLYING SERVICE INC was involved in an aviation accident near Carlisle, AR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper recovery from a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 13 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot's first solo flight ended with structural damage to the airplane's firewall after an improper recovery from a bounced landing. No injuries were reported.

Incident Summary

A student pilot, operating an airplane during her first solo flight, experienced a bounced landing that led to structural damage. The flight instructor had exited the aircraft after six takeoffs and landings, allowing the student to attempt the solo flight.

Sequence of Events

During the student's first solo landing, the airplane bounced upon touchdown. The student pilot attempted to recover from the bounced landing but did so improperly. This resulted in the airplane sustaining structural damage to its firewall. The aircraft subsequently came to rest in an upright position.

Aircraft and Occupant Status

The student pilot was able to exit the airplane without assistance. No anomalies were reported regarding the airplane's flight controls throughout the incident. The extent of the damage was limited to the firewall, and the airplane remained upright after coming to a stop.

Investigation Findings

The investigation determined that the improper recovery from the bounced landing was the direct cause of the structural damage to the firewall. No other factors were noted in the report.

Probable cause

Improper recovery from a bounced landing.

Contributing factors

Student pilotIncorrect use/operation