Primary finding
Probable cause
The student pilot's improper landing flare and recovery from a bounced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The accident occurred during the student pilot's third landing on his first solo flight. He reported that he flew the final approach between 72 and 74 knots and that he reduced engine power as the airplane crossed-over the runway numbers. He stated that the stall warning horn sounded as he flared, but the aircraft did not descend onto the runway. He reduced his yoke back pressure and the airplane landed hard on the runway. The airplane then proceeded to bounce several times before stabilizing on a landing rollout. An after-flight inspection revealed that one of the propeller blade tips was curled from contact with the runway and that the engine firewall was substantially deformed.
Source record
Factual narrative
The accident occurred during the student pilot's third landing on his first solo flight. He reported that he flew the final approach between 72 and 74 knots and that he reduced engine power as the airplane crossed-over the runway numbers. He stated that the stall warning horn sounded as he flared, but the aircraft did not descend onto the runway. He reduced his yoke back pressure and the airplane landed hard on the runway. The airplane then proceeded to bounce several times before stabilizing on a landing rollout. An after-flight inspection revealed that one of the propeller blade tips was curled from contact with the runway and that the engine firewall was substantially deformed.