Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Memory Loss During ILS Approach, Aircraft Impacts Short of Runway (N9603B)

Bloominton, IN, US

On December 18, 1986, a Cessna 172RG (registration N9603B) was involved in an aviation accident near Bloominton, IN. 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

A pilot reported being cleared for an ILS approach and following glideslope and localizer normally. After seeing the ground at decision height, he has no memory until impact half a mile short of the runway. He does not recall attempting a missed approach.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that he was cleared for an instrument landing system (ILS) approach. He indicated that he followed the glideslope and localizer indications in a normal manner. The pilot eventually saw the ground before reaching his decision height, which he estimated to be approximately 200 feet above ground level. According to the pilot, this sighting of the ground was the last thing he remembered prior to the aircraft impacting the ground about half a mile from the end of the runway. He does not recall attempting a missed approach.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that he was cleared for the ILS approach and followed his glideslope and localizer indications in a normal manner. He eventually saw the ground prior to reaching his decision height of approximately 200 feet above ground level. This sighting of the ground was the last thing he remembered prior to impacting the ground approximately half a mile from the end of the runway. He does not remember attempting a missed approach.

Additional Details

The source provides no further information about the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, weather, or any injuries or damage. The pilot's account is the sole basis for this report. No analysis or conclusions are provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Dec 1986 Cessna 172RG accident near Bloominton, IN?

A pilot reported being cleared for an ILS approach and following glideslope and localizer normally. After seeing the ground at decision height, he has no memory until impact half a mile short of the runway. He does not recall attempting a missed approach.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Dec 1986 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N9603B, at Bloominton, IN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35331. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.