On June 6, 1986, a Cessna 172M (registration N20372) was involved in an aviation accident near Lynchburg, VA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot misjudged altitude and airspeed while landing at an unfamiliar airport due to a passenger's illness, resulting in a bounced landing and veer off the runway into grass where the left wing struck a tree.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred as the pilot was attempting to land at an unfamiliar airport during a cross-country flight because a passenger was feeling ill. The runway was 2,900 feet long with a 5 percent upslope at midfield. Approximately one-third of the distance down the runway, the pilot applied full power to go around, but the aircraft contacted the runway and bounced. It then veered left off the runway. The pilot landed the aircraft on the grass, and the left wing contacted a tree.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he misjudged his altitude and airspeed during the approach.
Runway Conditions
The runway was 2,900 feet long and featured a 5 percent upslope at midfield.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Jun 1986 Cessna 172M accident near Lynchburg, VA?
A pilot misjudged altitude and airspeed while landing at an unfamiliar airport due to a passenger's illness, resulting in a bounced landing and veer off the runway into grass where the left wing struck a tree.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jun 1986 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N20372, at Lynchburg, VA.
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