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Pilot Lands Aircraft After Clipping Ditch During Approach (N55PR)

Goshen, OH, US

On July 6, 1996, a Boeing Stearman E75N1 (registration N55PR) was involved in an aviation accident near Goshen, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain during short final approach/landing flare. The hot temperature was a related factor. 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

A pilot reported that while landing on runway 24, the airplane settled after reducing power and clipped a ditch, resulting in a landing gear loss. No preimpact anomalies were noted; temperature was 88°F.

Incident Overview

A pilot was providing a ride to a friend when the airplane experienced a landing gear loss after clipping a ditch during approach to runway 24. The pilot stated that the heat from the corn field and ditch caused the airplane to settle more quickly, leading to the contact.

Pilot's Account

According to the pilot, the approach was normal until she felt the airplane settle over a corn field. She added power when she sensed being low, but after clearing the field, she reduced power. Immediately after power reduction, the airplane settled and clipped the edge of a ditch. The pilot continued the landing, describing it as smooth and straight ahead, with a soft touchdown. However, the landing gear was gone upon landing. The pilot noted that heat from the corn field and ditch contributed to the rapid settling on hot summer days.

Conditions

The pilot reported the temperature at the time of the incident was 88 degrees Fahrenheit. There was no evidence or claim of any preimpact mechanical anomaly with the airplane. The pilot attributed the settling effect to the hot conditions prevailing over the corn field and ditch.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Jul 1996 Boeing Stearman E75N1 accident near Goshen, OH?

A pilot reported that while landing on runway 24, the airplane settled after reducing power and clipped a ditch, resulting in a landing gear loss. No preimpact anomalies were noted; temperature was 88°F.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Jul 1996 Boeing Stearman E75N1 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Jul 1996 involved a Boeing Stearman E75N1, registration N55PR, at Goshen, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain during short final approach/landing flare. The hot temperature was a related factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06258. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.