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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Impacts Ridge During Second ILS Approach in Low Visibility (N9253H)

Carlsbad, CA, US

On February 18, 1986, a Cessna 172M (registration N9253H) was involved in an aviation accident near Carlsbad, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual contact with the runway during a second instrument landing system approach, resulting in controlled flight into terrain. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot failed to see the runway during an initial instrument landing system approach at minimums and was vectored for a second attempt before the aircraft disappeared from radar near the airport.

What happened

The pilot initiated an instrument landing system approach under instrument flight rules conditions. The reported weather met the minimums required for landing, but the pilot did not acquire visual reference to the runway during this first attempt. Air traffic controllers subsequently provided radar vectors to guide the aircraft for a second approach.

Controllers monitored the flight as it proceeded toward the airport. The approach appeared normal until the aircraft's radar target vanished from the scope approximately two miles from the runway threshold. Ground rescue personnel located the wreckage on a ridge covered in fog, near the location where the radar contact was lost.

The investigation

Examination of the site revealed the aircraft had impacted terrain in a fog-shrouded area. The location of impact corresponded with the point where the aircraft disappeared from radar surveillance.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain visual contact with the runway during a second instrument landing system approach, resulting in controlled flight into terrain.
Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Feb 1986 Cessna 172M accident near Carlsbad, CA?

The pilot failed to see the runway during an initial instrument landing system approach at minimums and was vectored for a second attempt before the aircraft disappeared from radar near the airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Feb 1986 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N9253H, at Carlsbad, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain visual contact with the runway during a second instrument landing system approach, resulting in controlled flight into terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32871. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.