No fatalities

Student Pilot Bounces Aircraft During Solo Landing, Propeller Strikes Runway

Scappoose, OR, United States

On September 29, 2011, a CESSNA 152 operated by HILLSBORO AVIATION INC was involved in an aviation accident near Scappoose, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a bounced landing from which she was unable to recover. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 17 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot reported three bounces during landing, resulting in a propeller strike and structural damage to the airframe.

Accident Details

A student pilot was conducting solo landing practice at a nearby airport. The pilot determined the appropriate landing direction to maintain consistency with other traffic. During the final approach, the airplane was slow, so the pilot added power while reducing pitch. Upon reaching the runway, the airplane was higher than normal, and the pilot reduced power to idle. The airplane subsequently bounced three times. During the bounces, the propeller impacted the runway.

Aircraft Damage

Post-accident examination revealed several bent longerons and deformation of the firewall.

Pilot Statement

The student pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Landing flare — Not attained/maintainedStudent pilot

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Sept 2011 CESSNA 152 accident near Scappoose, OR?

A student pilot reported three bounces during landing, resulting in a propeller strike and structural damage to the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Sept 2011 CESSNA 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Sept 2011 involved a CESSNA 152, operated by HILLSBORO AVIATION INC, at Scappoose, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a bounced landing from which she was unable to recover.