Casualties unknown

1997-11-21: Mooney M20K (N252A) — Eden Prairie, MN

Eden Prairie, MN, US

On November 21, 1997, a Mooney M20K (registration N252A) was involved in an aviation accident near Eden Prairie, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper decision to continue the approach beyond decision height, when he could not see the runway; and his attempt to land without being properly aligned on the runway. Factors relating to this accident were: darkness, fog and and runway lights. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot on an ILS approach to runway 9R at Flying Cloud Airport leveled off above decision height and struggled to locate runway lights due to low visibility. The aircraft touched down off the right edge of the runway, striking multiple lights during the landing roll.

Incident Overview

A pilot flying an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach to runway 9R at Flying Cloud Airport in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, experienced a misaligned landing that resulted in the aircraft striking runway lights. The pilot reported that after following the glideslope, he leveled off at an altitude described as 'a few feet above decision height.' At that point, he had difficulty identifying the runway lights because of the prevailing weather conditions.

Weather Conditions

Weather at the time was reported as 300 feet overcast ceiling with visibility of one-half mile in fog and mist. These conditions contributed to the pilot's reduced ability to visually acquire the runway environment.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that when he finally spotted the runway lights, he was already beyond the runway threshold and not properly aligned with the runway centerline. Consequently, the airplane touched down off the right edge of the runway and struck several runway lights during the landing roll.

Aircraft Examination

Post-incident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical anomalies or malfunctions that could have contributed to the event.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09152. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.