Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing and his subsequent inadequate pitch and airplane control during a go around which resulted in a nose landing gear collapse.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was landing the airplane while in the right seat for the first time. During touchdown, the airplane landed hard and ballooned. The pilot then initiated a go-around and as he increased the engine power with his left hand, he also pushed forward on the control yoke with his right hand. Subsequently, the airplane landed hard again, the nose landing gear separated, and the fuselage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA188 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 8, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Bernardino, California
- Nearest airport
- San Bernardino Intl (SBD)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 182Q
- N-number
- N54PW
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1979
- 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.