On June 19, 2004, a Cessna T210N (registration N7393C) was involved in an aviation accident near Ellijay, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and stop within the available runway distance during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Cessna 172R overran the end of runway 21 at Ellijay Airport, traveling through grass and down a drop-off before coming to rest inverted. No injuries were reported.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft touched down on the last third of runway 21 at Ellijay Airport. The runway measures 3500 feet in length and 50 feet in width. Following touchdown, the airplane overran the paved surface and continued for approximately 198 feet across a grassy area. It then descended a drop-off before coming to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the airframe, flight control systems, engine assemblies, and associated accessories was conducted. The inspection revealed no mechanical anomalies or pre-existing defects that would account for the accident sequence.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and stop within the available runway distance during landing.