Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Collapse After Short Runway Impact (N737WU)

Brookville, OH, US

On October 17, 1987, a Cessna 172N (registration N737WU) operated by Brookville Air-park was involved in an aviation accident near Brookville, OH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on final approach fell below the desired flight path, impacted short of the runway, and collapsed its landing gear. Investigation found use of 40 degrees of flaps instead of 30 degrees used during training.

Accident Event

During final approach, the aircraft began to descend below the flight path the pilot intended. Remedial actions taken by the pilot were insufficient to correct the deviation. Consequently, the aircraft impacted the ground short of the runway, causing the landing gear to collapse.

Investigation Findings

Investigation into the accident revealed that the pilot had selected 40 degrees of flaps, rather than the 30 degrees that had been used during the pilot's training. The aircraft was equipped with a set of controls that allowed the pilot to operate the rudder pedals by hand.

Pilot Information

The pilot was a paraplegic and had a reduced hearing ability, which severely restricted his verbal communication.

Conclusion

No probable cause was stated in the official investigation.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Oct 1987 Cessna 172N accident near Brookville, OH?

An aircraft on final approach fell below the desired flight path, impacted short of the runway, and collapsed its landing gear. Investigation found use of 40 degrees of flaps instead of 30 degrees used during training.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Oct 1987 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N737WU, operated by Brookville Air-park, at Brookville, OH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32259. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.