Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands Long on Short Runway, Aborts Go-Around Due to Power Lines, Aircraft Exits Runway (N52789)

Glendale, AZ, US

On June 22, 1985, a Cessna 172P (registration N52789) operated by Stellar Executive Serv. Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Glendale, AZ. 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

During final approach, the pilot realized he was low and erroneously chose not to use full flaps instead of adding power. Landing long on a 2400 ft runway, he attempted a go-around but aborted due to power lines, resulting in a runway excursion.

Incident Overview

A pilot experienced a runway excursion after a landing and aborted go-around on a 2400-foot runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage when it departed the end of the runway.

Approach and Landing

During the final approach to landing, the pilot realized he was low. Instead of adding power, he erroneously decided not to use full flaps. The reference speed (Vref) was high, and the aircraft touched down approximately three-quarters of the way down the 2400-foot runway.

Go-Around Attempt

Believing he had sufficient room to take off again, the pilot applied full power. However, the close proximity of power lines off the departure end of the runway influenced him to abort the go-around.

Outcome

After aborting the go-around, the aircraft continued off the end of the runway and was substantially damaged. No injuries or fatalities were reported in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jun 1985 Cessna 172P accident near Glendale, AZ?

During final approach, the pilot realized he was low and erroneously chose not to use full flaps instead of adding power. Landing long on a 2400 ft runway, he attempted a go-around but aborted due to power lines, resulting in a runway excursion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jun 1985 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N52789, operated by Stellar Executive Serv. Inc., at Glendale, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36830. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.