Casualties unknown

Private Pilot's Landing Attempt Ends with Runway Excursion and Overturn (N3748F)

Westminister, MD, US

On May 5, 1997, a Cessna 172H (registration N3748F) was involved in an aviation accident near Westminister, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged landing distance on the runway and his failure to perform a go-around. 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 private pilot executed a go-around after an initial landing attempt on a short runway. On the second attempt, the aircraft touched down long, departed the runway, and flipped over down an embankment.

Incident Overview

A private pilot conducted two landing attempts on a runway with specific challenging characteristics. The first attempt resulted in a go-around.

Runway Details

The runway was 1,845 feet long with a 278-foot displaced threshold. The runway had a downward incline greater than 2% starting at midfield.

Second Landing Attempt

During the second attempt, the pilot estimated the touchdown point was approximately 300 feet from the runway numbers. Despite constant braking, the aircraft continued to the end of the runway.

Runway Excursion

According to a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector, the airplane touched down about midfield. During rollout, the aircraft drifted off the runway. Braking was attempted with one main wheel on the pavement and the other on the grass. The brakes were locked as the airplane went off the runway, down an embankment, and flipped over.

Pilot Information

The pilot held a private pilot certificate. No further details about the pilot or aircraft are available in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 May 1997 Cessna 172H accident near Westminister, MD?

A private pilot executed a go-around after an initial landing attempt on a short runway. On the second attempt, the aircraft touched down long, departed the runway, and flipped over down an embankment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 May 1997 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N3748F, at Westminister, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot misjudged landing distance on the runway and his failure to perform a go-around.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07935. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.