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Casualties unknown

Short Landing Due to Unresponsive Engine During Approach (N2477L)

Hagerstown, MD, US

On April 1, 1984, a Cessna 172H (registration N2477L) was involved in an aviation accident near Hagerstown, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and power during the approach, resulting in an unresponsive engine and a landing short of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted a straight-in approach but experienced engine unresponsiveness when adding power near the airport, resulting in a landing short of the runway with no mechanical failures found.

What happened

The pilot initiated a five-mile straight-in approach to the airport. As the aircraft came within two miles of the airfield, the pilot reduced power and applied carburetor heat while slowing the aircraft. Observing that the aircraft was likely to land short of the runway, the pilot added power in an attempt to correct the trajectory. However, the engine did not respond as expected. The aircraft ultimately touched down three-quarters of a mile short of the runway threshold.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the aircraft was conducted following the accident. Investigators found no pre-accident mechanical failure or malfunction that would have contributed to the event. The engine appeared mechanically sound, suggesting the lack of response was likely due to operational factors rather than equipment failure.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and power during the approach, resulting in an unresponsive engine and a landing short of the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Apr 1984 Cessna 172H accident near Hagerstown, MD?

A pilot attempted a straight-in approach but experienced engine unresponsiveness when adding power near the airport, resulting in a landing short of the runway with no mechanical failures found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Apr 1984 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N2477L, at Hagerstown, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and power during the approach, resulting in an unresponsive engine and a landing short of the runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39392. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.