On July 4, 1998, a Cessna 172M (registration N2XC) was involved in an aviation accident near Chesterfield, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's not obtaining and maintaining directional control. A factor was wet terrain (grass). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane exited the runway after touchdown, traversed a wet grassy area, and impacted a taxiway. The pilot reported not using brakes or rudder on touchdown. Post-accident inspection found no anomalies in brakes or flight controls.
Accident Sequence
The airplane departed the runway after touchdown, moving across a wet grassy area before striking a taxiway. According to the pilot, he did not apply brakes or make any rudder input at the moment of touchdown. He also stated he was unaware of when the nosewheel contacted the runway surface.
After exiting the runway, the pilot applied brakes and left rudder. This action stopped the airplane's right turn but did not return it to the runway. The airplane continued onto a taxiway, where the nosewheel contacted a lip on the pavement and subsequently collapsed.
Post-Accident Inspection
An examination of the airplane following the accident revealed no anomalies in the brake system or continuity of the flight controls.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Jul 1998 Cessna 172M accident near Chesterfield, MO?
An airplane exited the runway after touchdown, traversed a wet grassy area, and impacted a taxiway. The pilot reported not using brakes or rudder on touchdown. Post-accident inspection found no anomalies in brakes or flight controls.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jul 1998 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N2XC, at Chesterfield, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's not obtaining and maintaining directional control. A factor was wet terrain (grass).
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