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Casualties unknown

Loss of directional control during landing on short runway (N3884D)

Strathmore, CA, US

On July 24, 1987, a Cessna 182A (registration N3884D) was involved in an aviation accident near Strathmore, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted from an inability to stop the aircraft on the available runway length due to the lack of flap extension and high density altitude conditions. 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 2026-06-17Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna aircraft lost directional control upon landing on a 2000-foot runway after the pilot reported brake failure, compounded by landing without flaps.

What happened

During a cross-country flight, the aircraft touched down approximately 500 feet from the approach end of the runway. The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft and stated that the brakes failed to respond. The runway on which the aircraft landed was approximately 2000 feet long. Density altitude for that day was computed to be 2000 feet, with a temperature of 81 degrees. As stated in the Cessna operation manual, this aircraft requires approximately 1375 feet of ground roll, with 40 degrees of flaps, and a standard temperature of 59 degrees. The aircraft was landed with no flaps extended.

The investigation

There were no mechanical failures or malfunctions reported.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted from an inability to stop the aircraft on the available runway length due to the lack of flap extension and high density altitude conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jul 1987 Cessna 182A accident near Strathmore, CA?

A Cessna aircraft lost directional control upon landing on a 2000-foot runway after the pilot reported brake failure, compounded by landing without flaps.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jul 1987 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N3884D, at Strathmore, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted from an inability to stop the aircraft on the available runway length due to the lack of flap extension and high density altitude conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31566. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.