During an annual inspection on Feb. 26, 2014, a mechanic discovered buckling, compression, and kinking of both firewall sections of the Cessna 172M.
In addition, the front floor sections, front belly sections, front belly skin, center pedestal, and numerous stringers and angles were damaged.
The airplane was operated by a flying club in South Bend, Ind. The flying club was unable to determine when the damage took place, however, it is possible that the damage was associated with nosewheel damage that was discovered earlier on Dec. 2, 2013.
The NTSB determined the probable cause as the pilot involved and the phase of flight when the damage was incurred were not determined.
NTSB Identification: CEN14CA155
This February 2014 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.
Someone walked away from a very bad landing and knowingly failed to report it which put others in danger. It happened to me and my crew once some years ago, that is accepting a 4 engine heavy jet transport on a domestic freight hauling flight in which engine No.1 (turbofan) had been drug on the previous landing causing that engine to lose oil pressure soon after takeoff forcing an engine shutdown and a subsequent (routine) 3 engine landing. The Flight Recorder soon revealed when and how the damage occurred putting the previous crew on report.