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CESSNA 172M accident at Westminster, MD, 1 May 2024
On May 1, 2024, a CESSNA 172M operated by WIFA (WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT ACADEMY) LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Westminster, MD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to attain a proper touchdown point during a simulated loss of engine power approach, which resulted in a hard landing short of the runway. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 16 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to attain a proper touchdown point during a simulated loss of engine power approach, which resulted in a hard landing short of the runway. Also causal was the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action during the approach and subsequent aborted landing.
— NTSB Determination
Contributing factors
PilotDescent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintainedInstructor/check pilot
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 May 2024 CESSNA 172M accident near Westminster, MD?
The pilot’s failure to attain a proper touchdown point during a simulated loss of engine power approach, which resulted in a hard landing short of the runway. Also causal was the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action during the approach and subsequent aborted landing.
Were there any fatalities in the 1 May 2024 CESSNA 172M accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 May 2024 involved a CESSNA 172M, operated by WIFA (WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT ACADEMY) LLC, at Westminster, MD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to attain a proper touchdown point during a simulated loss of engine power approach, which resulted in a hard landing short of the runway. Also causal was the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action during the approach and subsequent aborted landing.
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