No fatalities

17 Jul 2013: CESSNA 162 — Vector Air LLC — Broomfield, CO

Broomfield, CO, United States

On 17 Jul 2013, a CESSNA 162 operated by Vector Air LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Broomfield, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper recovery from a bounced landing, which resulted in a loss of control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

While maneuvering to land, the pilot executed a slip to increase descent rate. After a bounced landing and porpoise oscillation, the pilot initiated a go-around, during which the nose pitched up and the airplane rolled left, impacting a field next to the runway.

Approach and Landing Attempt

During the final approach to landing, the airplane was high on the glidepath. To increase the descent rate, the pilot slipped the airplane. At approximately 50 feet above the runway, the pilot transitioned from the slip to the landing attitude. The airplane bounced upon touchdown. In response, the pilot made a small power increase and lowered the nose. The airplane bounced a second time and began a porpoise-type oscillation.

Go-Around and Impact

The pilot then initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the airplane's nose pitched up and the airplane rolled left. The airplane subsequently impacted a field adjacent to the runway. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination of the airplane by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Directional control — Not attained/maintained