On May 27, 1996, a Cessna 177 (registration N177JM) was involved in an aviation accident near Corvallis, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to properly judge the distance and altitude to the runway just before touching down, and his premature flare for landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot reported that during short final for runway 27 at Corvallis Municipal Airport, sun glare prevented accurate height judgment, resulting in a hard landing that collapsed the nose gear and substantially damaged the firewall.
Incident
The pilot of an airplane reported that while on short final approach to runway 27 at Corvallis Municipal Airport, the sun emerged from behind a cloud, creating glare and visibility problems. He stated that he could not accurately determine the airplane's height above the runway. He began the flare after judging that the dark pavement was just below the aircraft.
Hard Landing and Damage
The airplane landed hard on the main landing gear. This hard touchdown caused a porpoise motion, pitching the airplane forward onto the nose gear. The nose gear subsequently collapsed. The impact also substantially damaged the firewall.
Investigation
No preimpact mechanical deficiency was reported. The pilot's account indicates that the sudden sun glare hindered his ability to perceive the airplane's altitude during the landing flare.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 May 1996 Cessna 177 accident near Corvallis, OR?
The pilot reported that during short final for runway 27 at Corvallis Municipal Airport, sun glare prevented accurate height judgment, resulting in a hard landing that collapsed the nose gear and substantially damaged the firewall.
Were there any fatalities in the 27 May 1996 Cessna 177 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 May 1996 involved a Cessna 177, registration N177JM, at Corvallis, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the pilot to properly judge the distance and altitude to the runway just before touching down, and his premature flare for landing. Factors relating to the accident were: the presence of sun glare during the landing, and the resultant degradation of the pilot's visual perception.
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