CESSNA 172S near Middletown, DE — 2013-08-18

Probable cause

The student pilot’s improper recovery from a bounced landing.

NTSB narrative

According to the student pilot, this flight was her first solo flight and she successfully completed three solo landings. During the landing flare of the last approach, she stated that she became concerned with the airplane's speed and distance from the ground. The airplane impacted the ground “hard” and bounced. The student pilot released back pressure on the yoke and the airplane impacted the ground and bounced a second time. She stated that she pulled the throttle to near the idle position and the airplane hit the ground a third time and came to rest on the runway. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the firewall. The student pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Landing gear collapse · Landing-flare/touchdown

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• FAA Damage assessment and pilot interveiws.other
• Photo 1: Overview of the damage. (Courtesy of the FAA)photos
• Photo 2: Damage to engine firewall.(Courtesy of the FAA)photos
• Weather Reports and Records.report

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