This March 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Cessna 140. Injuries: None. Location: Dayton, Tenn. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot, who was practicing crosswind landings, told investigators that when he flared the plane came down hard and bounced, then launched back into the air and veered to the left. He corrected with aileron and rudder, and the airplane tracked to the right. The main landing gear hit the runway hard and was torn from the aircraft. The airplane slid on its belly and came to a stop. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper flare, which resulted in a hard landing.
For more information: NTSB.gov
