3 Sep 2012: CESSNA 172S — Tailwheels Etc.

3 Sep 2012: CESSNA 172S — Tailwheels Etc.

No fatalities • Sebring, FL, United States

Probable cause

The student pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a hard landing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The student pilot reported that during a solo flight, just prior to touchdown, he flared the airplane too high above the runway. The airplane touched down hard and bounced; however, the student pilot was able to complete the landing and did not notice any anomalies at that time. He subsequently performed another takeoff and landing uneventfully. At the conclusion of his last flight of the day, the student pilot noticed damage to the airplane. The student pilot added that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane prior to the hard landing. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed damage to the firewall and lower fuselage.

Contributing factors

  • cause Incorrect use/operation
  • cause Student pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC

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