On June 18, 1995, a Cessna 172N (registration N6542F) operated by Joseph R. Mock was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's distraction during the downwind leg, which led to an off-center landing and subsequent collision with ground objects. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot with minimal experience in the aircraft type landed off-center and struck a golf cart and building during the landing roll on the downwind leg.
What happened
During the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, the pilot diverted attention from flight controls to search for another aircraft. This distraction resulted in an off-center touchdown, with the right main landing gear contacting the ground to the right of the runway surface. As the aircraft continued its landing roll, it collided with a golf cart and subsequently struck a building.
The investigation
The pilot's experience level was noted as a significant factor in the mishap. Records indicated that the pilot had accumulated only 3.1 hours of total flight time specifically in this make and model of aircraft at the time of the accident.
Probable cause
The pilot's distraction during the downwind leg, which led to an off-center landing and subsequent collision with ground objects.
What happened in the 18 Jun 1995 Cessna 172N accident near Houston, TX?
A pilot with minimal experience in the aircraft type landed off-center and struck a golf cart and building during the landing roll on the downwind leg.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jun 1995 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N6542F, operated by Joseph R. Mock, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's distraction during the downwind leg, which led to an off-center landing and subsequent collision with ground objects.
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