On January 23, 1988, a Bellanca 17-30 (registration N7377V) was involved in an aviation accident near Barron, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of altitude and distance during the final approach, which resulted in an undershoot and impact with a snowbank. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot misjudged altitude and distance during final approach, resulting in a short landing where the aircraft struck a snowbank shortly before reaching the runway threshold.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a landing approach when he misjudged both the altitude and the remaining distance to the runway. According to passenger accounts, the pilot reduced power approximately 200 feet from the runway threshold. Following this reduction, the aircraft began to sink at an excessive rate. The pilot attempted to apply additional power to arrest the descent, but the input was made too late to prevent the undershoot.
The aircraft touched down short of the intended landing area and struck a snowbank. No mechanical difficulties were reported prior to or during the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's misjudgment of altitude and distance during the final approach, which resulted in an undershoot and impact with a snowbank.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Jan 1988 Bellanca 17-30 accident near Barron, WI?
A pilot misjudged altitude and distance during final approach, resulting in a short landing where the aircraft struck a snowbank shortly before reaching the runway threshold.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Jan 1988 involved a Bellanca 17-30, registration N7377V, at Barron, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's misjudgment of altitude and distance during the final approach, which resulted in an undershoot and impact with a snowbank.
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