On March 20, 1988, a Cessna 172P (registration N66717) operated by Emu Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Sebewaing, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and subsequent nose gear collapse. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft bounced upon landing, veered left during braking, and exited the runway into a ditch, causing the nose gear to collapse despite no mechanical brake failure.
What happened
The pilot reported that upon touchdown, the aircraft experienced two distinct bounces before continuing forward along the runway for approximately 200 feet. When the pilot applied the brakes to slow the aircraft, it began to veer sharply to the left side of the pavement. The aircraft subsequently departed the active runway surface and entered a nearby ditch. During this excursion, the nose landing gear sustained structural failure and collapsed.
The investigation
Following the incident, investigators examined the braking system to determine if mechanical issues contributed to the loss of directional control. The pilot stated that he believed the left brake had locked up during application. However, post-incident inspection revealed no evidence of brake failure or malfunction within the system.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and subsequent nose gear collapse.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Mar 1988 Cessna 172P accident near Sebewaing, MI?
A light aircraft bounced upon landing, veered left during braking, and exited the runway into a ditch, causing the nose gear to collapse despite no mechanical brake failure.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Mar 1988 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N66717, operated by Emu Flying Club, at Sebewaing, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and subsequent nose gear collapse.
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