This August 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 172. Injuries: None. Location: Charlottesville, Va. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings in gusty winds. The winds were reported as 200° at 11 knots with gusts to 17 knots. He attempted to land on runway 21, but flared high. He added additional engine power to smooth the touchdown. The airplane landed hard and bounced. He performed a go-around and subsequently landed without further incident. Post-flight inspection of the airplane revealed damage to the nose gear assembly and engine firewall.
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper flare while landing. The gusty winds were a factor.
For more information: NTSB.gov
