Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN10CA552

Stow, OH, USA

Aircraft #1

N97921

CESSNA 172P

Analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane was high on final approach and that she initiated a slip in order to lose altitude. During the landing flare, the airplane descended faster than she anticipated and touched down hard, bouncing 4 or 5 times down the runway. The pilot applied brakes and was able to regain control, stopping the airplane on the runway. A postaccident inspection revealed substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that the airplane was high on final approach and she initiated a slip in order to lose altitude. She flared the airplane for landing; however, it sank "quickly" and hit the runway "very hard." The airplane subsequently bounced 4 or 5 times. She applied the brakes and was able to regain control. After exiting the airplane, she noticed that the nose wheel was flat. A post accident inspection revealed nose landing gear and firewall damage. The pilot reported that there were no failures or malfunctions associated with the airplane prior to the accident.

Probable Cause and Findings

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

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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