Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in substantial damage.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during touchdown in crosswind conditions, it "felt like [the airplane] landed heavily on the nose wheel." He added that he taxied to park without further incident.
Postaccident examination revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation system located at the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 300° at 9 knots. The pilot landed on runway 29.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA163 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 11, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bedford, Massachusetts
- Nearest airport
- Laurence G Hanscom Fld (BED)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N249FS
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2005
- 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.