Accident Overview
A private pilot flying a Cessna 172P experienced a runway excursion while landing on a private 2,700-foot-long gravel airstrip. The aircraft touched down within the first third of the runway at 60 knots but failed to stop, continuing off the upwind end and impacting trees. The pilot reported that the brakes locked during heavy braking.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that upon arrival near the airstrip, he executed a descending 360-degree turn to reduce altitude before lining up for a landing to the southeast. Wind conditions were light and variable. During the approach, he sequentially lowered the flaps to 30 degrees, after which he noticed a rapid descent rate. The touchdown occurred at 60 knots. Initial braking felt inadequate, so he applied heavier braking, which caused the wheels to lock. The aircraft then slid off the runway end into trees.
Witness Observation
A commuter pilot who landed at the same airstrip about one hour later reported observing skid marks in the gravel over the last approximately 500 feet of the runway, leading to the aircraft's resting position in the trees. The witness also remarked that the airstrip was not suitable for inexperienced pilots.
Aircraft Performance Data
According to the Cessna 172P flight manual, the short-field landing distance planning table indicates that at sea level, with a weight of 2,400 pounds (maximum gross weight), a temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, zero wind, flaps 30 degrees, power off, and maximum braking on a dry, paved runway, the expected ground roll is 530 feet with a total distance of 1,265 feet required to clear a 50-foot obstacle. No mechanical malfunction of the aircraft's brakes or wheels was noted after the accident.