Tower Personnel Observed The Airplane Land Hard, Bounce, And Then Climb Out

Location: Palm Springs, CA Accident Number: WPR21LA080
Date & Time: January 6, 2021, 14:11 Local Registration: N737NB
Aircraft: Cessna 172 Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

On December 4, 2020, about 1411 Pacific standard time, a Cessna C172N, N737NB, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Palm Springs, California. The pilot was seriously injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight.

The Palm Springs International Airport tower controller reported that the airplane completed two previous full stop, taxi back landings. On the next landing, the pilot was cleared for the option to runway 31R. Subsequently, the tower personnel observed the airplane land hard, bounce, and then climb out. Shortly thereafter, the airplane banked sharply to the left and then spiraled downward towards the ground. A review of airport surveillance video confirmed what the tower personnel observed.

Another witness located at the Palm Springs Air Museum, 150 yards east of the final impact area, reported the engine did not sound like it was producing full power during the go around. All major sections of the airplane necessary for flight were accounted for at the accident site. There was no evidence of post impact fire.

The airplane was recovered to a secure facility at the airport.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov