On February 17, 1991, a Cessna 172N (registration N5300F) operated by David M. Forbes was involved in an aviation accident near San Carlos, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and control of the aircraft during the landing phase, which resulted in a hard landing due to an encounter with a downdraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported experiencing a downdraft over the landing threshold during a fourth consecutive approach, resulting in a hard landing despite calm weather conditions.
What happened
The pilot provided a statement regarding the circumstances of the incident. The aircraft was conducting its fourth consecutive approach to the airport. While the aircraft was positioned over the landing threshold, it encountered a downdraft. This atmospheric disturbance caused the aircraft to land hard.
Wind conditions reported by the control tower favored the active runway at the time. According to the tower's weather report, there were no wind gusts or turbulence present during the accident sequence.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and control of the aircraft during the landing phase, which resulted in a hard landing due to an encounter with a downdraft.
What happened in the 17 Feb 1991 Cessna 172N accident near San Carlos, CA?
A pilot reported experiencing a downdraft over the landing threshold during a fourth consecutive approach, resulting in a hard landing despite calm weather conditions.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Feb 1991 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N5300F, operated by David M. Forbes, at San Carlos, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and control of the aircraft during the landing phase, which resulted in a hard landing due to an encounter with a downdraft.
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