Casualties unknown

1994-06-21: Cessna 175B (N8103T) — Sonora, TX

Sonora, TX, US

On June 21, 1994, a Cessna 175B (registration N8103T) was involved in an aviation accident near Sonora, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN OBSTACLE CLEARANCE. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane struck power lines near a gas plant, then returned to the airport. During landing, the pilot initiated a go-around due to deer on the runway but the airplane did not respond properly. Later, while flying low over a golf course, it struck a tree and crashed.

Departure and Initial Incident

The airplane departed from an airport and proceeded to a gas plant located 6 nautical miles to the south. A witness at the gas plant observed the airplane strike power lines and narrowly avoid colliding with gasoline tanks and a small hill. After this incident, the airplane flew back to the airport.

Landing Attempt and Go-Around

The pilot reported that during landing, after touchdown, he observed deer running onto the runway and into the path of the airplane. He stated that he added power to execute a go-around, but the airplane did not respond properly.

Low Altitude Circling

A witness observed the airplane circling the airport and a golf course at a very low altitude several times. Subsequently, the airplane was observed flying slowly at a low altitude heading south along the number one fairway of the golf course.

Final Maneuver and Impact

The airplane then made a steep left turn. During this turn, the left wing struck a tree, causing the airplane to nose down and impact the ground on the edge of the 7th fairway of the golf course.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01517. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.