On April 21, 1996, a Cessna 172N (registration N739BN) was involved in an aviation accident near Middleton, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing, which resulted in an inadvertent ground swerve. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On final approach to runway 12, the pilot used 30° flaps and 65 knots, applying crosswind corrections. A hard touchdown left of centerline led to a left-side runway exit and nose-over in soft mud. The pilot noted insufficient directional control on roll and excessive flap setting.
Accident Details
During the final approach to runway 12, the pilot selected 30 degrees of flaps and maintained an indicated airspeed of 65 knots. To counteract the crosswind, the pilot applied right aileron and opposite rudder. He reported that constant adjustments to the flight controls were necessary to hold the extended centerline. The touchdown was described by the pilot as "a bit hard" and occurred left of the runway centerline. After landing, the airplane exited the left side of the runway and nosed over after encountering soft mud.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that during the landing roll, he did not maintain directional control as aggressively as he had on final approach. He also expressed that he should have used less than 30 degrees of flaps for the landing.
Weather
A weather station reported winds from 170 degrees at 13 knots with gusts to 18 knots.
What happened in the 21 Apr 1996 Cessna 172N accident near Middleton, WI?
On final approach to runway 12, the pilot used 30° flaps and 65 knots, applying crosswind corrections. A hard touchdown left of centerline led to a left-side runway exit and nose-over in soft mud. The pilot noted insufficient directional control on roll and excessive flap setting.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Apr 1996 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N739BN, at Middleton, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing, which resulted in an inadvertent ground swerve. Factors relating to the accident were: the gusty crosswind condition, the pilot's excessive lowering of flaps, and the encounter with soft terrain.
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