Probable cause
The student pilot's inadequate landing flare and lack of remedial actions, which resulted in a hard bounced landing.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot reported that he reduced engine power while on final approach and that the airplane developed a higher sink rate than expected. The airplane subsequently landed hard and bounced three to four times, collapsing the nose landing gear and substantially damaging the firewall. The student pilot stated that he did not attempt to go around. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA130 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 19, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kelso, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Southwest Washington Regional (KLS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 152
- N-number
- N89956
- 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.