On July 4, 1998, a Cessna T210K (registration N8132G) operated by Jean O. Mcconnell was involved in an aviation accident near Del Norte, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper touchdown point for landing. Factors were the high density altitude, the downhill sloping runway, and the ditch off the end of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that during landing at a high-altitude airstrip, the airplane touched down halfway down the runway and overran, crossing a road and hitting a ditch. Density altitude was computed at 10,032 feet.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, she circled the field to lose altitude and evaluate the weather. Indicators showed calm wind, and she flew a standard left traffic pattern for runway 8. She flew normal indicated airspeed but noted that at the high altitude (approximately 8,000 feet msl) ground speed was higher. The last 200 to 300 feet of runway 8 sloped markedly downhill. The airplane overran the runway, crossed a gravel road, and impacted a ditch.
Investigation Findings
The Investigator-In-Charge computed the density altitude at the time of the accident as 10,032 feet. The owner's manual for the airplane indicated it was capable of stopping in about 980 feet. Witnesses reported no obstructions to the approach end of runway 08 and observed the airplane touch down halfway down the runway for its full stop landing.
What happened in the 4 Jul 1998 Cessna T210K accident near Del Norte, CO?
A pilot reported that during landing at a high-altitude airstrip, the airplane touched down halfway down the runway and overran, crossing a road and hitting a ditch. Density altitude was computed at 10,032 feet.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jul 1998 involved a Cessna T210K, registration N8132G, operated by Jean O. Mcconnell, at Del Norte, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper touchdown point for landing. Factors were the high density altitude, the downhill sloping runway, and the ditch off the end of the runway.
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