Casualties unknown

Pilot Unable to Activate Runway Lights, Lands Long and Runs Off Runway (N734BK)

West Memphis, AR, US

On October 9, 1988, a Cessna 172 (registration N734BK) operated by West Memphis Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near West Memphis, AR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 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

During a night personal flight, a pilot could not activate runway lights on the designated frequencies, landed without them, touched down far down the runway, and ran off the end. A NOTAM had declared the airport unusable at night due to new light installation.

Incident Overview

During a night personal flight, the pilot reported being unable to activate the runway lights using the designated frequencies. As a result, he attempted to land without the aid of the runway lights. The aircraft touched down near the far end of the runway and subsequently ran off the end of the runway.

Airport Conditions

A Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) had been issued stating that the airport was unusable during the hours of darkness. This restriction was due to ongoing installation of new runway lights at the airport.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that he could not activate the runway lights on the frequencies designated for that purpose. He chose to proceed with the landing despite the absence of runway lighting.

Sequence of Events

The pilot touched down on the far end of the runway. After touchdown, the aircraft continued beyond the runway surface and came to a stop off the end of the runway.

Relevant NOTAM

The NOTAM declared the airport unusable at night because the new runway lights were not yet operational. The pilot was aware of this NOTAM but proceeded with the night landing anyway.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Oct 1988 Cessna 172 accident near West Memphis, AR?

During a night personal flight, a pilot could not activate runway lights on the designated frequencies, landed without them, touched down far down the runway, and ran off the end. A NOTAM had declared the airport unusable at night due to new light installation.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Oct 1988 involved a Cessna 172, registration N734BK, operated by West Memphis Aviation, at West Memphis, AR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27135. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.