Casualties unknown

Aircraft Overruns Runway at Marlboro Airport, Nose Wheel Breaks and Aircraft Flips (N3242L)

Matawan, NJ, US

On April 28, 1990, a Cessna C-172 (registration N3242L) operated by Thomas E. Morris was involved in an aviation accident near Matawan, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT FACTOR IN THAT THE PILOT LANDED LONG AND WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE A/C ON THE REMAINING R/W. 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

An aircraft on an IFR flight plan from Bedford, Massachusetts to Marlboro Airport landed long, ran off the end of the runway, and flipped after the nose wheel dug into a soft field.

Flight Details

The flight departed Bedford, Massachusetts, on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan to Marlboro Airport. After the pilot identified the airport, the IFR flight plan was cancelled.

Landing and Accident

The aircraft touched down approximately 1,100 feet beyond the runway threshold. At that point, the pilot observed red lights and realized that the aircraft would not be able to stop within the remaining runway distance. The aircraft subsequently ran off the end of the runway, traveled down a short embankment, and entered a soft field. During this overrun, the nose wheel dug into the soft ground and broke off, causing the aircraft to flip onto its back.

Damage

The nose wheel was broken off from the aircraft during the overrun and subsequent flip. No further damage details were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Apr 1990 Cessna C-172 accident near Matawan, NJ?

An aircraft on an IFR flight plan from Bedford, Massachusetts to Marlboro Airport landed long, ran off the end of the runway, and flipped after the nose wheel dug into a soft field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Apr 1990 involved a Cessna C-172, registration N3242L, operated by Thomas E. Morris, at Matawan, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

PILOT FACTOR IN THAT THE PILOT LANDED LONG AND WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE A/C ON THE REMAINING R/W.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23019. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.