Casualties unknown

Aircraft Impacts Slope Short of Runway During Practice Forced Landing (N5583C)

Nikiski, AK, US

On September 25, 1994, a Cessna 170A (registration N5583C) was involved in an aviation accident near Nikiski, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER DESCENT RATE. A FACTOR WAS THE CHECK PILOT'S INADEQUATE SUPERVISION. 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

During a Civil Air Patrol practice forced landing, the aircraft slipped twice and impacted an upslope 25 feet short of the runway after a go-around was called.

Flight Details

Two pilots were conducting a local practice flight under Civil Air Patrol operations. The pilot flying decided to execute a practice forced landing to a nearby 4,000-foot private airstrip.

Approach and Landing

While turning final, the pilot observed the aircraft was high and performed a slip to descend to approximately 400 feet above ground level. At that point, the check pilot noted the aircraft was in a 'perfect' position for landing about 200 feet beyond the threshold and then diverted attention away from the approach.

The pilot then entered a second slip on short final to dissipate excessive airspeed, subsequently stating that the aircraft 'landed short of runway.' The check pilot sensed the second slip, observed the aircraft was low, and called for a go-around just prior to impact.

Impact

The aircraft struck an upslope 25 feet short of the runway. No further details were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Sept 1994 Cessna 170A accident near Nikiski, AK?

During a Civil Air Patrol practice forced landing, the aircraft slipped twice and impacted an upslope 25 feet short of the runway after a go-around was called.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Sept 1994 involved a Cessna 170A, registration N5583C, at Nikiski, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER DESCENT RATE. A FACTOR WAS THE CHECK PILOT'S INADEQUATE SUPERVISION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02261. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.