On June 22, 1987, a Cessna 172B (registration N8105X) operated by James Freeman was involved in an aviation accident near Belton, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft following a hard landing caused by a downdraft on short final, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway surface. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot encountered a downdraft during final approach, resulting in a hard landing and bounce. Loss of control ensued as the aircraft veered off the left side of the sod runway surface.
What happened
The pilot was conducting an approach to land on a sod runway when the aircraft experienced significant turbulence. While on short final, the pilot encountered a downdraft that caused the aircraft to touch down with excessive force. The impact resulted in a bounce, after which the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft subsequently departed the left side of the runway surface.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have hindered normal operation. The pilot estimated surface winds were blowing at 8 knots from the south during the incident.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident were the downdraft encountered on final approach and the resulting hard landing. These conditions led to a loss of directional control after the aircraft bounced upon touchdown.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft following a hard landing caused by a downdraft on short final, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway surface.
What happened in the 22 Jun 1987 Cessna 172B accident near Belton, SC?
A pilot encountered a downdraft during final approach, resulting in a hard landing and bounce. Loss of control ensued as the aircraft veered off the left side of the sod runway surface.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jun 1987 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N8105X, operated by James Freeman, at Belton, SC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft following a hard landing caused by a downdraft on short final, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway surface.
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