No fatalities

Student Pilot Bounces During Landing, Propeller Strikes Ground

Trenton, NJ, United States

On November 9, 2017, a CESSNA 172 S operated by CHRISTIANSEN AVIATION INC was involved in an aviation accident near Trenton, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 14 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During a solo flight, a student pilot bounced twice while landing, causing the propeller to strike the ground and substantial damage to the cabin floor.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting a solo flight, staying in the traffic pattern and performing takeoffs and landings. During the third landing, the airplane was high and the approach angle was steep. The pilot reduced power and trimmed the airplane for landing. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced twice, and the propeller struck the ground.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the cabin floor. No other damage was reported.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

PilotLanding flare — Not attained/maintained

All Cessna 172 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Nov 2017 CESSNA 172 S accident near Trenton, NJ?

During a solo flight, a student pilot bounced twice while landing, causing the propeller to strike the ground and substantial damage to the cabin floor.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Nov 2017 CESSNA 172 S accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Nov 2017 involved a CESSNA 172 S, operated by CHRISTIANSEN AVIATION INC, at Trenton, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing.