Casualties unknown

Overrun Landing on Private Grass Airstrip Ends on Highway (N73660)

LA Monte, MO, US

On August 4, 2003, a Cessna 172M (registration N73660) operated by William R. Ferguson was involved in an aviation accident near LA Monte, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of speed and distance resulting in an overrun of 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

An airplane overran a 2,000-foot grass airstrip, crossed a fence and ditch, and came to rest on a highway. The pilot reported landing long with excessive airspeed and unfamiliarity with the strip.

Accident Overview

During a landing on a 2,000-foot long private grass airstrip, the airplane overran the runway, striking a wire fence and crossing a ditch before coming to rest on an adjacent highway. The pilot subsequently exited the aircraft and moved it to the side of the road.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that he landed long and with excessive airspeed, which prevented the aircraft from stopping within the confines of the airstrip. He acknowledged being unfamiliar with the landing strip and stated that he should have conducted an aerial inspection to assess its condition prior to landing.

Runway Conditions

The pilot described the grass surface as dry with some dead spots, noting that the vegetation offered minimal resistance during the landing roll. The combination of the long landing, excessive speed, and lack of braking friction contributed to the aircraft's inability to stop on the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Aug 2003 Cessna 172M accident near LA Monte, MO?

An airplane overran a 2,000-foot grass airstrip, crossed a fence and ditch, and came to rest on a highway. The pilot reported landing long with excessive airspeed and unfamiliarity with the strip.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Aug 2003 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N73660, operated by William R. Ferguson, at LA Monte, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's misjudgment of speed and distance resulting in an overrun of the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030808X01289. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.