On April 13, 1985, a Cessna 172P (registration N55211) was involved in an aviation accident near Phillipsburg, OH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a night visual approach to an unfamiliar airport, an aircraft struck unmarked power lines half a mile from the runway. The pilot was unaware of the collision until the aircraft halted and hit the ground, later finding wires wrapped around the nose gear.
Accident Overview
A night visual flight rules (VFR) approach to an unfamiliar airport resulted in a collision with power lines located approximately half a mile from the runway end. The pilot reported that she was unaware of the wires and did not realize her aircraft had struck them until forward progress ceased and the aircraft impacted the ground.
Pilot Account
After exiting the aircraft following the accident, the pilot observed the power lines wrapped around the nose gear. This discovery led her to understand what had occurred. The pilot stated that she had no prior knowledge of the wires' presence.
Power Line Details
The power line involved in the incident is situated 30 feet above the ground. It is not equipped with obstruction lights, making it difficult to detect during night operations.
What happened in the 13 Apr 1985 Cessna 172P accident near Phillipsburg, OH?
During a night visual approach to an unfamiliar airport, an aircraft struck unmarked power lines half a mile from the runway. The pilot was unaware of the collision until the aircraft halted and hit the ground, later finding wires wrapped around the nose gear.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Apr 1985 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N55211, at Phillipsburg, OH.
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