No fatalities

1 Mar 2010: CESSNA 172P — ARI BEN AVIATOR INC — Ft. Pierce, FL

Ft. Pierce, FL, United States

On 1 Mar 2010, a CESSNA 172P operated by ARI BEN AVIATOR INC was involved in an aviation accident near Ft. Pierce, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper flare and the flight instructor's delayed remedial action, resulting in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 17 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During a training approach to runway 10 left, a student pilot applied excessive back pressure, causing the aircraft to balloon and then touchdown hard on the main landing gear. The instructor took over, executed a go-around, and landed on another runway. The rudder torque tube sustained substantial damage.

Incident Summary

A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were conducting a training flight. While on approach for landing to runway 10 left, the student pilot applied excessive back pressure on the elevator flight control. This caused the aircraft to balloon before touching down hard on the main landing gear.

Instructor Intervention

After the hard touchdown, the CFI assumed control of the aircraft. The instructor executed a go-around and subsequently landed the airplane on a different runway. The landing was completed without further incident.

Damage Assessment

A post-landing inspection revealed substantial damage to the rudder torque tube. The extent of the damage necessitated repair before the aircraft could be returned to service. No other damage was reported.

Training Context

The incident occurred during a training exercise with a student pilot under the supervision of a certified flight instructor. The specific maneuvers and conditions leading up to the approach were not detailed in the source. The instructor's prompt action to take over and perform a go-around likely prevented further damage or injury.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationStudent pilotInstructor/check pilot