Casualties unknown

Hard Landing Results in Tire Deflation and Structural Damage (N6828P)

Washington, DC, US

On May 17, 1986, a Cessna 340A (registration N6828P) was involved in an aviation accident near Washington, DC. 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

An aircraft made a hard landing about 300 feet past the runway numbers, causing both main landing gear tires to deflate and substantial damage to engine nacelles and inboard wing areas.

Event Description

An aircraft was initially too high to land on the runway assigned by air traffic control (ATC). ATC directed the aircraft to fly over the airport and enter downwind traffic for an alternate runway. The pilot was later asked by ATC if he could make a short approach, to which he replied affirmatively. The aircraft subsequently made a hard landing approximately 300 feet past the runway numbers.

Damage

The hard landing resulted in deflation of both main landing gear tires. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the engine nacelles and inboard wing areas. The nose gear area appeared undamaged.

Pilot's Account

The pilot later reported that he had flared the aircraft at about 5 to 7 feet above the runway and 100 feet past the threshold when the aircraft "suddenly was sucked to (the) ground."

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 May 1986 Cessna 340A accident near Washington, DC?

An aircraft made a hard landing about 300 feet past the runway numbers, causing both main landing gear tires to deflate and substantial damage to engine nacelles and inboard wing areas.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 May 1986 involved a Cessna 340A, registration N6828P, at Washington, DC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33490. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.