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Casualties unknown

Sun Glare Blinds Pilot on Final Approach, Resulting in Tree Strike (N736VQ)

Lakeview, AR, US

On December 31, 1997, a Cessna R172K (registration N736VQ) was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeview, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain runway alignment during the approach, and his delayed decision to execute a go-around. A related factor was the sunglare interfering with the pilot's view. 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 returning to a turf airstrip was blinded by the sun on final approach, drifting right and striking a tree. The airplane was equipped with sun visors.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that after returning to a 3,200 ft turf airstrip to land, he descended to 1,400 feet MSL and entered a left downwind for runway 24. After configuring the airplane for landing, he turned final approach.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that "in the course of the final approach, the sun suddenly blinded me and I didn't have any forward vision." He concluded, "I apparently drifted to the right of course and struck a tree . . ." The right wing of the airplane impacted trees located north of the final approach course.

Passenger's Statement

The non-rated passenger, who was seated in the right front seat, also stated that "on landing we were blinded by the sun."

Equipment Note

The airplane was equipped with sun visors for both front seats.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Dec 1997 Cessna R172K accident near Lakeview, AR?

A pilot returning to a turf airstrip was blinded by the sun on final approach, drifting right and striking a tree. The airplane was equipped with sun visors.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Dec 1997 involved a Cessna R172K, registration N736VQ, at Lakeview, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain runway alignment during the approach, and his delayed decision to execute a go-around. A related factor was the sunglare interfering with the pilot's view.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09317. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.