NTSB Factual Report

On May 1, 2006, about 1445 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172N, N738DW, registered to Palmetto Sales & Leasing, Inc., operated by ADF Airways Corporation, experienced a loss of control during landing at Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport, Miami, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight from Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private-rated pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight originated about 1425, from Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport.

The pilot stated that approximately 20 minutes after takeoff he radioed the Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport Air Traffic Control Tower and requested touch-and-go landings. He reported having a difficulty with the aircraft's radio and was cleared for a full stop landing on runway 9R. He further reported,''...the landing seemed normal; the main wheels touch down, but then as I noticed the yoke not releasing from the flare, the aircraft starts to balloon, I add a little power and attempt to land but the yoke was stiff." The airplane ballooned "...a couple of times, hitting the ground hard until I finally stopped." He taxied the airplane to the ramp and secured it where he again noticed the elevator control still stiff.

Postaccident examination of the airplane by an airframe and powerplant mechanic revealed impact damage to the firewall, and the control yoke was displaced up and was in contact with an instrument panel support bracket. Examination of the elevator flight control system revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction.

NTSB Probable Cause

The improper flare by the pilot resulting in a hard landing and substantial damage to the airplane.