On August 31, 1985, a Cessna 172M (registration N64264) was involved in an aviation accident near Kahoka, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the final approach and his subsequent decision to execute a go-around, which resulted in the aircraft striking a pole and crashing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot reported excessive airspeed on final approach, resulting in a hard landing and an attempted go-around that led to the aircraft striking a pole and crashing.
What happened
During the final phase of the flight, the pilot reported that the aircraft's airspeed increased unexpectedly as he turned onto the final approach course. Unable to reduce the speed sufficiently, the aircraft touched down at an excessive rate. Following the landing, the pilot attempted a last-minute go-around maneuver. During this attempt, the aircraft struck a concrete-filled metal pole located near the end of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to leave the runway surface, cross a street, and enter an adjacent soybean field. The aircraft continued forward until it came to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
The pilot provided a statement regarding the sequence of events leading to the accident. He noted that the loss of control during the go-around was preceded by the inability to slow the aircraft on final approach. The physical evidence indicated that the aircraft had impacted a stationary object before exiting the runway environment.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the final approach and his subsequent decision to execute a go-around, which resulted in the aircraft striking a pole and crashing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Aug 1985 Cessna 172M accident near Kahoka, MO?
The pilot reported excessive airspeed on final approach, resulting in a hard landing and an attempted go-around that led to the aircraft striking a pole and crashing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Aug 1985 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N64264, at Kahoka, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the final approach and his subsequent decision to execute a go-around, which resulted in the aircraft striking a pole and crashing.
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