On September 9, 1987, a Cessna 172PC (registration N5343K) operated by Jersey Sport Flyers was involved in an aviation accident near Jerseyville, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and proper alignment during the final approach in dark conditions, resulting in a landing gear impact with a drainage ditch short of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft struck a drainage ditch short of runway during a night approach, sliding briefly before stopping after the pilot's first solo night flight.
What happened
The pilot and one passenger were returning from a local flight when conditions deteriorated as darkness fell. While approaching to land on runway 36, the aircraft's landing gear struck a drainage ditch located approximately 2 to 3 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the aircraft slid for an estimated distance of 6 to 10 feet before coming to a complete stop.
The investigation
Review of the flight history indicated that this event occurred during the pilot's first night flight as pilot-in-command. The timing of the incident coincided with the transition from daylight to darkness, suggesting potential challenges related to visual reference and depth perception during the final approach phase.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and proper alignment during the final approach in dark conditions, resulting in a landing gear impact with a drainage ditch short of the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 Sept 1987 Cessna 172PC accident near Jerseyville, IL?
Aircraft struck a drainage ditch short of runway during a night approach, sliding briefly before stopping after the pilot's first solo night flight.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Sept 1987 involved a Cessna 172PC, registration N5343K, operated by Jersey Sport Flyers, at Jerseyville, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and proper alignment during the final approach in dark conditions, resulting in a landing gear impact with a drainage ditch short of the runway.
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