Casualties unknown

1986-06-13: Cessna 177B (N34889) — Odessa, TX

Odessa, TX, US

On June 13, 1986, a Cessna 177B (registration N34889) was involved in an aviation accident near Odessa, TX. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot who had been drinking before departure returned to the airport after takeoff but touched down short of the runway when the door opened. The pilot, not wearing a seatbelt, was thrown from the aircraft and seriously injured; the passenger sustained minor injuries.

Accident Sequence

According to the passenger, the pilot had been consuming alcohol prior to the flight. After takeoff, the pilot decided that he might not be fit to fly and elected to return to the airport for landing. During the return, the pilot's seat belt reportedly became caught in the door. On final approach, the door opened, distracting the pilot. The aircraft subsequently touched down short of the runway, then skidded 255 feet before coming to a stop.

Injuries

The pilot was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. He was thrown out of the aircraft and sustained serious injuries. The passenger's seat belt was fastened, and she received only minor injuries.

Toxicology

A toxicology test revealed that the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.29%.

Investigation

No further details about the aircraft, operator, or location were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33876. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.