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Casualties unknown

Pilot Conducts Two NDB Approaches Before Collision with Trees and Terrain (N8945G)

Ludington, MI, US

On March 26, 1993, a Cessna 182N (registration N8945G) operated by Kesling, Robert W. was involved in an aviation accident near Ludington, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper instrument procedures. Related factors are the below approach minima weather conditions, fog and dark night. 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

The pilot reported making one instrument approach, but data shows two NDB approaches before the airplane struck trees and terrain near the airport in low visibility and fog.

Accident Overview

According to the pilot, he recalled making one instrument approach to the destination airport. However, air traffic control and radar data indicate that the pilot actually performed two NDB (nonprecision) approaches to Runway 25 at the destination airport.

The accident occurred at 0130 hours Eastern Standard Time. The airplane impacted trees and terrain in a residential area on the west boundary of the airport.

Weather Conditions

The airport manager's weather observation reported an indefinite ceiling, sky obscured, visibility of 1/4 mile in fog, and winds out of the west at five knots.

Pilot Communications

When the pilot missed the first approach, he told ATC that he "did get the runway in sight but couldn't land."

Pilot Qualifications

The pilot met FAA requirements for instrument currency.

Summary

No further details from the source are available. The circumstances surrounding the event involve two NDB approaches in foggy conditions, with the aircraft ultimately impacting terrain near the airport boundaries.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Mar 1993 Cessna 182N accident near Ludington, MI?

The pilot reported making one instrument approach, but data shows two NDB approaches before the airplane struck trees and terrain near the airport in low visibility and fog.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Mar 1993 involved a Cessna 182N, registration N8945G, operated by Kesling, Robert W., at Ludington, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper instrument procedures. Related factors are the below approach minima weather conditions, fog and dark night.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11936. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.