Casualties unknown

Pilot Encounters Instrument Meteorological Conditions on VFR Flight; Aircraft Impacts Ground Near Lubbock (N9875B)

Llano, TX, US

On October 23, 1987, a Cessna 172RG (registration N9875B) operated by G.t. Plus Three Flt Opeations was involved in an aviation accident near Llano, TX. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot departed Lubbock, Texas in VFR conditions but encountered deteriorating visibility and instrument meteorological conditions. The aircraft impacted the ground with gear and flaps retracted, then struck a tree. No pre-impact malfunctions were found.

Incident Overview

A pilot operating an aircraft departed Lubbock, Texas under visual flight rules (VFR) in visual meteorological conditions. As the flight progressed, the ceiling and visibility deteriorated, and the pilot encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). No evidence was found to indicate that the pilot obtained a weather briefing prior to departure or while en route.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground with its landing gear and wing flaps fully retracted. Following initial impact, the aircraft bounced and struck a large tree.

Post-Accident Investigation

A post-accident investigation revealed no pre-impact malfunctions of the aircraft. The investigation did not find any evidence that the pilot had obtained a weather briefing before departure or during the flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Oct 1987 Cessna 172RG accident near Llano, TX?

A pilot departed Lubbock, Texas in VFR conditions but encountered deteriorating visibility and instrument meteorological conditions. The aircraft impacted the ground with gear and flaps retracted, then struck a tree. No pre-impact malfunctions were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Oct 1987 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N9875B, operated by G.t. Plus Three Flt Opeations, at Llano, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32323. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.