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Casualties unknown

Pilot Aborts Landing, Strikes Power Lines During Go-Around at Morgan Field (N775NA)

Iowa, LA, US

On February 22, 1996, a Cessna 172P (registration N775NA) was involved in an aviation accident near Iowa, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's selection of the wrong runway for landing, his delay in initiating a go-around (aborted landing), and his failure to maintain clearance from the transmission lines. 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 go-around after aborting a landing on a short sod runway, the aft fuselage of an airplane struck power lines and crashed. Witnesses observed the approach was high and fast.

Flight Details

The pilot conducted an instrument approach to Chennault Industrial Airport before proceeding to land at Morgan Field, approximately 5 miles away. The pilot selected runway 5, a sod strip measuring 1,800 feet in length, despite wind conditions from 220 degrees at 12 knots.

Landing and Go-Around

Witnesses reported observing the airplane approaching 'high and fast.' The airplane touched down within the first third of the runway. The pilot, noting excessive ground roll speed, decided to abort the landing. The airplane became airborne after passing the midfield point. The pilot then retracted the flaps and established the best angle of climb speed in an attempt to clear nearby power lines.

Accident

During the initial climb, the aft portion of the fuselage impacted the power lines, causing the airplane to crash.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Feb 1996 Cessna 172P accident near Iowa, LA?

During a go-around after aborting a landing on a short sod runway, the aft fuselage of an airplane struck power lines and crashed. Witnesses observed the approach was high and fast.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Feb 1996 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N775NA, at Iowa, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's selection of the wrong runway for landing, his delay in initiating a go-around (aborted landing), and his failure to maintain clearance from the transmission lines. Factors relating to the accident were: the pilot's improper weather evaluation, the resultant tailwind, and the proximity of transmission…

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05256. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.