Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Automobile on Final Approach (N738LX)

Independence, MO, US

On October 10, 1993, a Cessna 172 (registration N738LX) was involved in an aviation accident near Independence, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S MISJUDGMENT OF DISTANCE, ALTITUDE, AND SPEED ON FINAL APPROACH TO LAND, AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN OBSTACLE CLEARANCE FROM THE VEHICLE. THE PROXIMITY OF THE VEHICLE TO THE APPROACH PATH WAS A RELATED FACTOR. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach to Runway 35, an airplane's landing gear struck an automobile's hood and windshield on a road along the airport's south boundary.

Incident Summary

During final approach to Runway 35, an airplane's landing gear struck the hood and windshield of an automobile. The automobile was westbound on a road located along the south boundary of the airport.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that the stall warning sounded during short final. He stated that he dropped the nose and believed he could reach the runway when he suddenly felt an impact. The pilot stated he did not see the car before impact.

Passenger Observation

The passenger in the car reported she saw the airplane coming in "...very slow, very low and fluttering from side to side..." and she thought it would pass overhead.

Aircraft and Vehicle Details

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, or the number of occupants. No injuries were reported in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Oct 1993 Cessna 172 accident near Independence, MO?

During final approach to Runway 35, an airplane's landing gear struck an automobile's hood and windshield on a road along the airport's south boundary.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Oct 1993 involved a Cessna 172, registration N738LX, at Independence, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S MISJUDGMENT OF DISTANCE, ALTITUDE, AND SPEED ON FINAL APPROACH TO LAND, AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN OBSTACLE CLEARANCE FROM THE VEHICLE. THE PROXIMITY OF THE VEHICLE TO THE APPROACH PATH WAS A RELATED FACTOR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13535. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.