Probable cause
The pilot's improper level off and flare in crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of control and hard landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing flare he encountered "localized rough air" and crosswind conditions. On the first landing the airplane touched down hard and began to porpoise. Following the second bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around, and requested his pilot rated passenger, who had more experience in the airplane, to take the flight controls. The pilot rated passenger landed without further incident. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and firewall.
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. He reported winds were from a variable direction at 10 knots.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA111 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 5, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Clewiston, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Airglades (2IS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 177
- N-number
- N29415
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1968
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.