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Aircraft Undershoots Runway During Precautionary Landing, Strikes Approach Light (N8196Y)

Appleton, WI, US

On February 27, 2001, a Piper PA-30 (registration N8196Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Appleton, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The misjudged glidepath and the intentional engine shutdown by the pilot. Factors were the false indication of the landing gear down light and the approach light. 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

An aircraft undershot the runway during a precautionary landing, struck a runway approach light, and came to rest about 10 feet from the runway end. The flight was practicing instrument approaches when a landing gear indicator issue arose.

Approach and Landing

During a flight conducted to practice instrument approaches, the pilot extended the landing gear on an approach. The landing gear down indicator light did not illuminate. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the problem and subsequently decided to proceed with landing.

Precautionary Landing

On final approach, the pilot elected to shut down the engines in an attempt to minimize potential engine and propeller damage in the event of a landing gear collapse. The pilot later stated, "I cut the power too soon."

Outcome

The aircraft undershot the runway during the precautionary landing, struck a runway approach light, and came to rest approximately 10 feet from the end of the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Feb 2001 Piper PA-30 accident near Appleton, WI?

An aircraft undershot the runway during a precautionary landing, struck a runway approach light, and came to rest about 10 feet from the runway end. The flight was practicing instrument approaches when a landing gear indicator issue arose.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Feb 2001 Piper PA-30 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Feb 2001 involved a Piper PA-30, registration N8196Y, at Appleton, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The misjudged glidepath and the intentional engine shutdown by the pilot. Factors were the false indication of the landing gear down light and the approach light.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010302X00533. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.