On March 24, 1985, a Cessna 172M (registration N73616) was involved in an aviation accident near Angola, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's momentary disorientation caused by haze and bright sunlight, which resulted in a short landing and subsequent nosing over of the aircraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot became disoriented by bright sunlight and haze during a cross-country flight with a passenger, resulting in a short landing and the aircraft nosing over.
What happened
The aircraft touched down short of the runway following an approach to land. The flight was part of a cross-country trip that included a passenger on board. During the final stages of the approach, the pilot reported becoming momentarily disoriented due to the combination of haze and bright sunlight.
During this brief period of spatial disorientation, the aircraft impacted the ground before reaching the intended touchdown zone. The impact forces caused the aircraft to nose over into an inverted position.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the approach and landing. Examination of the event revealed that the primary factor was the pilot's loss of orientation due to visual conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's momentary disorientation caused by haze and bright sunlight, which resulted in a short landing and subsequent nosing over of the aircraft.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Mar 1985 Cessna 172M accident near Angola, LA?
The pilot became disoriented by bright sunlight and haze during a cross-country flight with a passenger, resulting in a short landing and the aircraft nosing over.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Mar 1985 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N73616, at Angola, LA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's momentary disorientation caused by haze and bright sunlight, which resulted in a short landing and subsequent nosing over of the aircraft.
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