Casualties unknown

Bounced Landing Results in Runway Excursion and Fence Strike (N738GN)

Tenino, WA, US

On May 14, 1983, a Cessna 172 (registration N738GN) was involved in an aviation accident near Tenino, WA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot performed multiple approaches to check wind conditions, then landed with full flaps at 57 knots. After a bounce, the aircraft touched down with about 1000 feet of runway remaining and could not stop, exiting the runway and hitting a fence post.

Approach and Landing

The pilot arrived at the airport and performed several approaches to the runway to assess wind conditions, reporting that no wind was detected. He established a final approach at an airspeed of 57 knots with full flaps deployed.

Bounce and Touchdown

During the landing, the aircraft bounced. The pilot then set the aircraft down with approximately 1000 feet of runway remaining. Full brakes were applied, but the flaps were not retracted.

Loss of Control

The aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining runway length. A power line was present at the end of the runway, so the pilot elected not to perform a go-around. The aircraft continued off the end of the runway and struck a fence post.

Performance Data

According to the aircraft owner's manual, the expected landing roll was in excess of 1250 feet under the conditions of the landing.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 May 1983 Cessna 172 accident near Tenino, WA?

A pilot performed multiple approaches to check wind conditions, then landed with full flaps at 57 knots. After a bounce, the aircraft touched down with about 1000 feet of runway remaining and could not stop, exiting the runway and hitting a fence post.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 May 1983 involved a Cessna 172, registration N738GN, at Tenino, WA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43149. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.