No fatalities

Bounced Landing Leads to Substantial Fuselage Damage

Columbia, SC, United States

On April 1, 2011, a CESSNA 177 operated by Francios Tessier was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia, SC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard 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 reported a normal approach and landing flare, but a gust of wind caused a hard bounce. Post-flight inspection revealed substantial damage to the fuselage, with no pre-existing mechanical anomalies.

Incident Summary

A pilot landing an airplane on runway 29 reported a routine approach until the landing flare, when a gust of wind caused a hard bounce. The pilot heard a "clunk" during the bounce. After a second bounce, the pilot completed a final landing.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, the approach was normal. During the flare, the airplane encountered a gust and bounced hard. The pilot heard a "clunk" at that moment. The airplane bounced again before the pilot made the final landing. The pilot stated there were no pre-existing mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Weather Conditions

Winds recorded at the airport near the time of the accident were from 270 degrees true at 17 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Damage

Post-flight examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the fuselage.

Contributing factors

Landing flare — Not attained/maintainedPilotIncorrect use/operation