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Hard Landing During Simulated Emergency Approach

Midland, TX, United States

On June 3, 2009, a BEECH F33A operated by Professional Pilot Program-Midland College was involved in an aviation accident near Midland, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare resulting in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the inadequate oversight of the flight by the instructor pilot. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot, under instruction from a CFI, conducted a simulated electrical failure and no-flap landing. On final approach, the nose pitched up and the airplane descended rapidly. Full power could not prevent a hard landing, resulting in structural damage. No mechanical anomalies were found.

Accident Details

After takeoff, a private pilot received instruction from a certified flight instructor to proceed to a nearby training area to practice flight maneuvers. Upon returning to the airport environment, the airplane entered the traffic pattern and conducted a simulated electrical failure and no-flap landing. On final approach and over the runway, the nose of the airplane pitched up and the airplane began a rapid descent. The pilot was unable to arrest the descent with the application of full power, and the airplane landed hard.

Aircraft Damage

An examination of the airplane revealed that the main landing gear was bent, the wings were wrinkled, and the right wing was bent upward at the flap attachment point.

Pilot Statements and Examination

The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident. An examination of the airplane's systems revealed no mechanical anomalies.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotLanding flare — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Instructor/check pilot

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jun 2009 BEECH F33A accident near Midland, TX?

A private pilot, under instruction from a CFI, conducted a simulated electrical failure and no-flap landing. On final approach, the nose pitched up and the airplane descended rapidly. Full power could not prevent a hard landing, resulting in structural damage. No mechanical anomalies were found.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jun 2009 BEECH F33A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jun 2009 involved a BEECH F33A, operated by Professional Pilot Program-Midland College, at Midland, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper flare resulting in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the inadequate oversight of the flight by the instructor pilot.

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