Casualties unknown

Pilot Overruns Wet Grass Runway After Delayed Go-Around (N12334)

Statesville, NC, US

On July 14, 1985, a Cessna 172 M (registration N12334) was involved in an aviation accident near Statesville, NC. 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

A pilot encountered reduced visibility and difficulty finding the airstrip. After a go-around, the aircraft landed on a wet grass runway but could not stop, overrunning and striking a small tree.

Accident

While en route, the pilot encountered reduced visibility and had difficulty finding the airstrip. His first approach to land was high, prompting a go-around. The pilot landed on his second attempt but was unable to stop on the wet grass runway. He delayed attempting another go-around until there was insufficient runway remaining to clear power lines at the departure end. Subsequently, the aircraft went off the right end of the runway, and the left wing hit a small tree before the aircraft stopped.

Weather

About 40 miles south at Charlotte, North Carolina, the weather was reported as: 800 feet broken, visibility 4 miles with fog, wind 260 degrees at 3 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jul 1985 Cessna 172 M accident near Statesville, NC?

A pilot encountered reduced visibility and difficulty finding the airstrip. After a go-around, the aircraft landed on a wet grass runway but could not stop, overrunning and striking a small tree.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jul 1985 involved a Cessna 172 M, registration N12334, at Statesville, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36984. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.