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Pilot's Go-Around and Landing Decision Precedes Power Line Strike (N5494K)

Seymour, TN, US

On June 13, 1999, a Cessna 172P (registration N5494K) was involved in an aviation accident near Seymour, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot to perform a go-around earlier resulting in a long landing, insufficient runway remaining to stop, and subsequent in flight collision with a marked power line during an aborted landing. 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, after a high approach and go-around, landed long on a familiar airstrip, then attempted a go-around. During climb, the left main landing gear hit a marked power line, followed by collisions with trees, a fence, and an upright stop.

Flight Details

The pilot reported having flown into the airstrip at least 15 times prior to the incident. During the initial approach, the pilot recognized the flight was high and executed a go-around. After orbiting the airport once to allow for departing traffic, the pilot re-entered the traffic pattern for landing.

Sequence of Events

While over the approach end of the runway with the flaps fully extended, the pilot again recognized the flight was high but believed sufficient runway remained after landing to stop the airplane. The airplane was landed "too far down the runway to be able to stop..." according to the pilot. The pilot then retracted the flaps to 10 degrees, applied full power, and began a climb. During the climb, the left main landing gear collided with a marked power line. Subsequently, the airplane collided with trees, a fence, and came to rest upright. The pilot stated there was no engine failure or malfunction.

Aircraft Examination

An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the airplane and found control continuity for roll, pitch, and yaw.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jun 1999 Cessna 172P accident near Seymour, TN?

A pilot, after a high approach and go-around, landed long on a familiar airstrip, then attempted a go-around. During climb, the left main landing gear hit a marked power line, followed by collisions with trees, a fence, and an upright stop.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jun 1999 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N5494K, at Seymour, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to perform a go-around earlier resulting in a long landing, insufficient runway remaining to stop, and subsequent in flight collision with a marked power line during an aborted landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19069. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.