On September 3, 1987, a Cessna 177 (registration N2295Y) operated by Joe Vogel was involved in an aviation accident near Genoa, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the final approach on an unlighted runway at dusk, resulting in a landing short of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot attempted a straight-in approach to an unlighted sod runway at dusk. Despite applying full power, the aircraft settled and touched down short of the runway in soft terrain.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a straight-in approach to land at dusk on an unlighted sod runway. Approximately two miles from the runway, the pilot lowered 10 degrees of flaps. While maintaining power at approximately 1800 RPM during the final approach, the aircraft began to settle. The pilot applied full power, but the aircraft continued a flat descent and touched down in soft terrain short of the runway.
The investigation
Following the landing, the nose gear sheared off and the right main gear collapsed. Damage was also sustained to the left wing tip, propeller, and fuselage.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the final approach on an unlighted runway at dusk, resulting in a landing short of the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Sept 1987 Cessna 177 accident near Genoa, IL?
The pilot attempted a straight-in approach to an unlighted sod runway at dusk. Despite applying full power, the aircraft settled and touched down short of the runway in soft terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Sept 1987 involved a Cessna 177, registration N2295Y, operated by Joe Vogel, at Genoa, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the final approach on an unlighted runway at dusk, resulting in a landing short of the runway.
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