Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain a proper descent rate, which resulted in a hard landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was cleared to land on runway 30R, but when he turned to the base leg, he observed a large airplane on final for 30L. However, he continued the approach, and the landing flare was normal, but the airplane landed hard. He recalled that the airplane "seemed ok," and he taxied to parking.
The following week, the airplane underwent an annual inspection. The inspection revealed that the left wing false spar and trunnion were substantially damaged.
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA581 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 29, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Jose, California
- Nearest airport
- Norman Y Mineta San Jose Intl (SJC)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 414
- N-number
- N1652T
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1973
- 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.