This January 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Cessna Cardinal. Location: Picayune, Miss. Injuries: None. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The 35-hour student pilot, who was practicing landings when the nose gear failed, told the FAA accident investigator that the landing was “a textbook landing” when the nose gear failed. However an inspection revealed substantial damage to the nose landing gear and firewall, indicative of a hard touchdown. Additionally, scrape marks were found on the right stabilator and tail skid. Despite numerous requests, the pilot did not file an NTSB Form 6120.
Probable cause: The pilot’s misjudgment of the landing flare, resulting in a hard landing.
For more information: NTSB.gov
