On July 3, 2000, a Cessna 120 (registration N2146N) was involved in an aviation accident near Toston, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient altitude to avoid contact with the ground. Contributing factors were the downdraft conditions and the fence post. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a sightseeing flight, a pilot encountered a strong downdraft, forced a landing on a dirt road, struck a fence post, and nosed over into a ditch.
Incident Summary
The pilot of an aircraft on a local sightseeing flight reported encountering a strong downdraft while operating approximately 1,000 feet above ground. Concerned that the aircraft might contact terrain, he maneuvered over a dirt road. The pilot stated there was no mechanical problem with the aircraft or its engine, yet the aircraft continued to descend until it touched down on the road.
Landing Roll and Sequence of Events
During the landing roll, the right main landing gear and right wing impacted a fence post. The impact caused the right wheel to separate from the strut. Subsequently, the aircraft veered right off the road and nosed over as it entered a ditch. The pilot provided this account in a telephonic interview.
What happened in the 3 Jul 2000 Cessna 120 accident near Toston, MT?
During a sightseeing flight, a pilot encountered a strong downdraft, forced a landing on a dirt road, struck a fence post, and nosed over into a ditch.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jul 2000 involved a Cessna 120, registration N2146N, at Toston, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient altitude to avoid contact with the ground. Contributing factors were the downdraft conditions and the fence post.
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