On 14 Sep 2011, a CESSNA 172R operated by Orlando Flight Training was involved in an aviation accident near Naples, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 14 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight flared too late, leading to a hard landing, loss of directional control, a runway excursion, and a collision with an embankment during an attempted go-around. The aircraft sustained structural damage to the firewall, right wing, and right horizontal stabilizer. No mechanical problems were reported.
Accident Details
A student pilot was conducting a solo cross-country flight. At an intermediate stop, the pilot entered the traffic pattern and completed all pre-landing checks. On final approach for landing, the pilot flared too late, resulting in a hard landing. The hard landing caused a loss of directional control, leading to a runway excursion. During an attempted go-around, the aircraft collided with an embankment.
Damage
The accident resulted in structural damage to the firewall, right wing, and right horizontal stabilizer.
Pilot Statement
The student pilot stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.