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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Porpoises on Landing, Strikes Fence After Go-Around Attempt (N3279T)

Fullerton, CA, US

On January 14, 1985, a Cessna 177 (registration N3279T) was involved in an aviation accident near Fullerton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft porpoised after touching down long and fast, and the go-around was attempted too late, resulting in a collision with a fence at the end 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft porpoised after a long, fast touchdown. A go-around was attempted but too late, and the aircraft struck a fence at the runway end. The pilot, who lacked an airman certificate, left the scene.

Accident Details

During landing, the aircraft touched down long and fast, causing it to porpoise. A go-around was attempted but was initiated too late. The aircraft subsequently struck a fence at the end of the runway.

Background

The owner of the aircraft, a pre-solo student pilot, was a passenger during the flight. The individual operating the aircraft, referred to as the 'pilot,' left the scene after the accident and could not be located. FAA records did not indicate that this individual ever held an airman certificate.

The 'pilot' had represented himself to the owner as an aircraft mechanic and had arranged to conduct an annual inspection of the aircraft. The purpose of the flight was to 'check out the aircraft.'

Aftermath

No further information was provided about the condition of the aircraft or any injuries.

Probable cause

The aircraft porpoised after touching down long and fast, and the go-around was attempted too late, resulting in a collision with a fence at the end of the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jan 1985 Cessna 177 accident near Fullerton, CA?

An aircraft porpoised after a long, fast touchdown. A go-around was attempted but too late, and the aircraft struck a fence at the runway end. The pilot, who lacked an airman certificate, left the scene.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jan 1985 involved a Cessna 177, registration N3279T, at Fullerton, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft porpoised after touching down long and fast, and the go-around was attempted too late, resulting in a collision with a fence at the end 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/20001214X35552. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.