Casualties unknown

Aircraft Overruns Runway and Strikes Fences After Landing Abort (N80255)

Climax Springs, MO, US

On May 19, 1992, a Cessna 172M (registration N80255) operated by Hamilton Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Climax Springs, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: DELAY IN ABORTING THE LANDING BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot attempted to abort a landing on a wet, downhill grass runway but could not stop in time, striking two split rail fences before coming to rest.

What happened

The aircraft landed on a grass runway measuring 1,900 feet in length. The surface conditions were wet, and the runway featured a downhill slope that extended toward the departure end. As the aircraft touched down, it became apparent to the pilot that stopping before reaching the end of the paved or prepared area was impossible due to the combination of speed, surface friction, and gradient.

The pilot initiated an abort procedure in an attempt to avoid colliding with a split rail fence located at the terminus of the runway. Despite these efforts, the aircraft failed to clear the first barrier. It continued its forward momentum, traveling an additional 600 feet beyond the initial point of impact. During this overrun, the aircraft struck a second split rail fence before finally coming to a complete stop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 May 1992 Cessna 172M accident near Climax Springs, MO?

The pilot attempted to abort a landing on a wet, downhill grass runway but could not stop in time, striking two split rail fences before coming to rest.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 May 1992 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N80255, operated by Hamilton Aviation, at Climax Springs, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

DELAY IN ABORTING THE LANDING BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14629. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.