On October 8, 1994, a Cessna 172M (registration N5061R) operated by Todd M. Gordon was involved in an aviation accident near Coalinga, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain a proper glide path. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot reported encountering a downdraft on short final, resulting in a touchdown short of the runway and subsequent collision with raised pavement.
What happened
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions of the aircraft or the engine. He stated that on short final he encountered a downdraft and the aircraft touched down short of the runway. After a short roll in the dirt, the aircraft collided with the raised asphalt of the runway and nosed over. Ground witnesses at the airport stated that the winds were calm.
The investigation
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions of the aircraft or the engine.
Findings
no mechanical malfunctions
Ground witnesses at the airport stated that the winds were calm.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 8 Oct 1994 Cessna 172M accident near Coalinga, CA?
The pilot reported encountering a downdraft on short final, resulting in a touchdown short of the runway and subsequent collision with raised pavement.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Oct 1994 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N5061R, operated by Todd M. Gordon, at Coalinga, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to maintain a proper glide path.
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