CESSNA 172 - S near Traverse City, MI — 2015-06-25

Probable cause

The student pilot's failure to maintain pitch control during the landing, resulting in a hard landing.

NTSB narrative

In a written statement provided by the flight instructor, the solo student pilot porpoised during the landing, came to a full stop, and taxied to the ramp. A post-flight inspection revealed substantial damage to the firewall, the underside of the fuselage, and the floor under the rudder pedals. The flight instructor reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Hard landing · Landing

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Photo 1 - Firewall (Photo Courtesy of Operator)photos
• Photo 2 - Fuselage Underside (Photo Courtesy of Operator)photos
• Photo 3 - Floor Board (Photo Courtesy of Operator)photos

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