On September 21, 1985, a Cessna 172I (registration N46175) was involved in an aviation accident near Cameron, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the instrument approach into deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in a loss of control due to stall. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying under IFR conditions encountered unexpectedly severe weather near the destination airport. Despite poor visibility, he continued the approach, missed the runway, and stalled after climbing over trees.
What happened
The pilot reported that he was aware of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions while en route to his destination but did not anticipate them developing so rapidly. As he approached within four minutes of his landing airport, the weather deteriorated significantly. Visibility became so poor that he was forced to deviate from his approach path to avoid a hangar complex.
He attempted to touch down on the runway as he crossed over it but instead climbed over nearby trees. The aircraft subsequently stalled and crashed into a planted field.
The investigation
No mechanical examination details were provided in the source text.
Findings
The pilot's decision to continue the approach despite rapidly worsening weather conditions was a critical factor. The inability to maintain visual reference due to low visibility led to spatial disorientation and loss of control.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the instrument approach into deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in a loss of control due to stall.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Sept 1985 Cessna 172I accident near Cameron, MO?
A pilot flying under IFR conditions encountered unexpectedly severe weather near the destination airport. Despite poor visibility, he continued the approach, missed the runway, and stalled after climbing over trees.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Sept 1985 involved a Cessna 172I, registration N46175, at Cameron, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to continue the instrument approach into deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in a loss of control due to stall.
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