What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-06-01 involved a Cessna 140, registration N72657, at Madison, CT.

Hornet Distraction Leads to Landing Accident and Nose-Over (N72657)

On June 1, 1998, a Cessna 140 (registration N72657) was involved in an aviation accident near Madison, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper in-flight decision to continue the landing and his delayed go-around attempt. A factor in this accident was the pilot's diverted attention. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot reported that a hornet distraction during flare led to a long landing on a short runway; the subsequent go-around attempt resulted in the airplane striking reeds and nosing over.

Accident Overview

The airplane was on approach to a 1,863-foot-long asphalt runway. The pilot stated that just before the final flare, a hornet distracted him, causing a loss of concentration on the landing task. Consequently, the aircraft touched down long on the runway.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, after touching down long, he saw only a short remaining area in which to stop. He applied full power to execute a go-around. However, there was not enough room before the reeds in the swampy area. The airplane struck the reeds and nosed over.

Wreckage Examination

Examination of the wreckage did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions of the airframe or engine. No pre-existing issues were found that could have contributed to the accident.

Weather Conditions

Wind data reported at airports approximately 15 miles west and 23 miles east of the accident site at 1345 indicated winds from 330 degrees at 15 knots with 20-knot gusts, and from 350 degrees at 10 knots, respectively.

1998-06-01: Cessna 140 (N72657) — Madison, CT