On April 17, 1986, a Cessna 172D (registration N2502Y) operated by Norman D. Skinner was involved in an aviation accident near Garden Grove, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff after the aircraft slowed due to a wet spot, which resulted in the aircraft running off the end of the runway and into a pond. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot aborted a takeoff after hitting a wet spot on the runway, but the aircraft continued off the pavement and into a nearby pond.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a takeoff from a private strip without deploying flaps. During the initial roll, the landing gear encountered a wet spot on the surface. This contact caused the aircraft to slow unexpectedly. The pilot responded by extending the flaps and continuing the acceleration phase of the takeoff.
As the aircraft approached the end of the available runway, the pilot realized there was insufficient distance remaining to complete the maneuver safely. He initiated an abort sequence. Despite the attempt to stop, the aircraft failed to halt on the pavement. It continued forward, leaving the runway surface and entering a body of water.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff after the aircraft slowed due to a wet spot, which resulted in the aircraft running off the end of the runway and into a pond.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Apr 1986 Cessna 172D accident near Garden Grove, IA?
The pilot aborted a takeoff after hitting a wet spot on the runway, but the aircraft continued off the pavement and into a nearby pond.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Apr 1986 involved a Cessna 172D, registration N2502Y, operated by Norman D. Skinner, at Garden Grove, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff after the aircraft slowed due to a wet spot, which resulted in the aircraft running off the end of the runway and into a pond.
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