Casualties unknown

Aircraft Departs Runway During Landing Rollout on Runway 23 (N5118Q)

Elko, NV, US

On August 2, 1986, a Cessna T210L (registration N5118Q) operated by Clinton G. Sayler was involved in an aviation accident near Elko, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of directional control during landing rollout resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent collision with terrain after an attempted go-around. 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

During landing rollout on runway 23, the aircraft deviated right before veering left and departing the pavement. The pilot attempted a go-around but collided with terrain shortly after becoming airborne.

What happened

The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight. As the aircraft was rolling out on runway 23, it began to deviate toward the right side of the paved surface. In response to this deviation, the pilot initially applied rudder input to correct the trajectory. When that proved insufficient, the pilot also applied left brake pressure.

Despite these corrective actions, the aircraft subsequently veered sharply to the left and departed the runway environment. Realizing the loss of directional control, the pilot attempted to initiate a go-around maneuver in an effort to regain control and fly away from the ground. Shortly after the aircraft became airborne during this attempt, it collided with terrain.

The investigation

The available source material does not provide specific details regarding mechanical examinations or post-accident findings beyond the immediate sequence of events described above.

Probable cause

Loss of directional control during landing rollout resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent collision with terrain after an attempted go-around.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Aug 1986 Cessna T210L accident near Elko, NV?

During landing rollout on runway 23, the aircraft deviated right before veering left and departing the pavement. The pilot attempted a go-around but collided with terrain shortly after becoming airborne.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Aug 1986 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N5118Q, operated by Clinton G. Sayler, at Elko, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of directional control during landing rollout resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent collision with terrain after an attempted go-around.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34633. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.