On February 13, 1989, a Cessna 172M (registration N73309) operated by Sacramento Aero Service Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Sacramento, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF THE WRONG RUNWAY FOR LANDING AND HIS DELAY IN INITIATING A GO-AROUND AFTER LANDING LONG. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: LIGHT CONDITIONS AS DUSK AND A TAILWIND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a dusk landing on runway 34, an aircraft touched down on the last third, initiated a go-around, struck a light pole with landing gear, and came to rest in wet/muddy terrain 1/4 mile from the departure end, sustaining extensive damage.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot's report, the aircraft was landing on runway 34 at dusk. The pilot stated that the airplane touched down on the last third of the runway. After touchdown, the pilot applied brakes in an attempt to stop, then decided to abort the landing and execute a go-around. During the climb-out phase, the landing gear struck a light pole. Subsequently, the aircraft contacted wet and muddy terrain approximately one-quarter mile from the departure end of the runway. The impact resulted in extensive damage to the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the pilot had made three attempts to land on the runway and was on his third go-around when the accident occurred. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was configured with full flaps. The wind was reported as coming from 180 degrees at 6 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 Feb 1989 Cessna 172M accident near Sacramento, CA?
During a dusk landing on runway 34, an aircraft touched down on the last third, initiated a go-around, struck a light pole with landing gear, and came to rest in wet/muddy terrain 1/4 mile from the departure end, sustaining extensive damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Feb 1989 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N73309, operated by Sacramento Aero Service Inc., at Sacramento, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF THE WRONG RUNWAY FOR LANDING AND HIS DELAY IN INITIATING A GO-AROUND AFTER LANDING LONG. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: LIGHT CONDITIONS AS DUSK AND A TAILWIND.
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