Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate landing flare, resulting in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the gusty wind condition.
NTSB analysis
The airplane's descent was uneventful. The wind was reported as 300 degrees at 19 knots gusting to 25 knots. After touchdown, the airplane porpoised. The pilot then taxied the airplane to the hangar. Although the landing was very rough, the pilot was unaware that the airplane was damaged. Post-flight examination revealed that the propeller blades were slightly bent to the rear, and the firewall was dented.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for LAX08CA124 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 7, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Luis Obispo, California
- Nearest airport
- San Luis County Regional (KSBP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172S
- N-number
- N65630
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.