No fatalities

Nose Gear Collapse During Landing Bounce

Mt. Pleasant, SC, United States

On June 28, 2009, a CESSNA 152 operated by PALMETTO AIR SERVICE LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Mt. Pleasant, SC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing. 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 pilot flying solo experienced multiple bounces during landing on runway 35; the third touchdown caused the nose gear to collapse, substantially damaging the wing spar.

Landing Sequence

The pilot was conducting a solo flight and entered the traffic pattern for runway 35. On approach, he reduced engine power and extended flaps to decrease airspeed. Upon initial touchdown, the airplane bounced. The pilot responded by adding a small amount of power. The airplane bounced a second time and then settled onto the runway. During the third contact with the runway surface, the nose gear collapsed, resulting in substantial damage to the wing spar.

Environmental Conditions

Weather reporting at the airport around the time of the accident indicated winds from 090 degrees at 5 knots.

Pilot Report

The pilot did not report any mechanical anomalies with the airplane during the flight or after the accident.

Contributing factors

PilotIncorrect use/operation

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jun 2009 CESSNA 152 accident near Mt. Pleasant, SC?

A pilot flying solo experienced multiple bounces during landing on runway 35; the third touchdown caused the nose gear to collapse, substantially damaging the wing spar.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 Jun 2009 CESSNA 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jun 2009 involved a CESSNA 152, operated by PALMETTO AIR SERVICE LLC, at Mt. Pleasant, SC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing.