NTSB Reports

During his second solo flight, the student pilot encountered a gust of wind during the landing flare. The airplane ballooned and then bounced twice on its nosewheel. After the second bounce, the student pilot applied full power and aborted the landing. The subsequent landing was uneventful and he taxied to the ramp. Post-accident examination revealed substantial damage to the firewall.

Editorial Staff

Monday, May 16, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Multiple accidents involved engine power loss or malfunction, leading to forced landings, crashes, or post-start fires.
Several fatal incidents occurred during low-altitude flight, often involving loss of control, collision with terrain or obstacles, or misjudgment in challenging conditions.
Loss of control or substantial damage frequently happened during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff or landing, due to factors like wind, mechanical issues, or pilot error.
One fatal EMS helicopter crash occurred during night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) while operating under visual flight rules (VFR) and without proper certification for instrument flight.

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Cessna 172 Skyhawk
March 23, 2016, Frederick, Md.

North American AT-6A Texan
March 23, 2016, Astoria, Wash.

At 1542 Pacific time, the airplane impacted the Columbia River. The private pilot and passenger sustained fatal injuries, and the airplane was destroyed. Visual conditions prevailed.