Casualties unknown

Aircraft nosed over after emergency landing in tree nursery following power loss (N93009)

Middleton, WI, US

On May 25, 1984, a Cessna 210L (registration N93009) was involved in an aviation accident near Middleton, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the approach with landing gear extended, which increased drag and reduced glide performance, leading to an off-airport landing in unsuitable terrain. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

During normal cruise flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden power loss. The pilot was vectored to the nearest airport but elected to land in adjacent terrain due to marginal clearance.

What happened

The flight proceeded normally during the cruise phase until the aircraft experienced an unexpected loss of power. Following this event, air traffic control provided vectors directing the pilot toward the nearest available airport. Despite receiving these instructions, there was no indication that any attempts were made to restore engine power.

As the aircraft approached the designated airport, the pilot extended the landing gear. This action increased aerodynamic drag, which steepened the glide path significantly. The resulting descent angle left only marginal clearance over trees located at the approach end of the runway. Consequently, the pilot decided against attempting a landing at the airport and instead elected to land in nearby soft terrain, specifically a tree nursery.

During the touchdown on this uneven surface, the aircraft nosed over.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue the approach with landing gear extended, which increased drag and reduced glide performance, leading to an off-airport landing in unsuitable terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 May 1984 Cessna 210L accident near Middleton, WI?

During normal cruise flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden power loss. The pilot was vectored to the nearest airport but elected to land in adjacent terrain due to marginal clearance.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 May 1984 involved a Cessna 210L, registration N93009, at Middleton, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to continue the approach with landing gear extended, which increased drag and reduced glide performance, leading to an off-airport landing in unsuitable terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39523. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.