Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing touchdown the airplane bounced on the main landing gear then nosed down and the propeller struck the ground.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA491 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 15, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Valparaiso, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Porter County Rgnl (VPZ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 28-180
- N-number
- N3331R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1969
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.