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Pilot Reports Landing Flare and Runway Excursion Leading to Tree Collision (N7821X)

Mt. Airy, NC, US

On March 30, 1999, a Cessna 172B (registration N7821X) was involved in an aviation accident near Mt. Airy, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed during landing and his failure to attain a proper touchdown point on the runway. 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

During landing, the pilot flared with excess airspeed, used up half the grass runway before touchdown, and could not stop or go around due to trees, resulting in a collision with a tree.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during landing on a 1600-foot grass runway. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that during the flare near the end of the runway, the airplane continued to fly about two to three feet above the ground. He noted that he had too much airspeed and had used up approximately half of the runway before touching down.

Sequence of Events

After touchdown, the pilot realized he could not stop before the end of the runway. He also reported that a go-around was not possible due to trees on the west end of the runway. The airplane subsequently departed the runway and collided with a tree.

No additional information about the aircraft, pilot, or precise location was disclosed in the report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Mar 1999 Cessna 172B accident near Mt. Airy, NC?

During landing, the pilot flared with excess airspeed, used up half the grass runway before touchdown, and could not stop or go around due to trees, resulting in a collision with a tree.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Mar 1999 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N7821X, at Mt. Airy, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed during landing and his failure to attain a proper touchdown point on the runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00268. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.