Aircraft excursion into hangar following runway touchdown

Casualties unknown • Somerville, NJ, US

An aircraft veered off a runway after landing, striking parked aircraft and entering a hangar during an excursion.

What happened

Upon touching down on the runway, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway. The aircraft then struck a parked airplane and continued its path into a hangar. Once inside the hangar, the aircraft struck another parked airplane before finally coming to a stop.

Following the accident, state authorities arrested the pilot. During the investigation, a supply of prescription sedative medication was discovered inside the airplane.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft did not reveal any mechanical abnormalities regarding the engine, the landing gear assembly, or the airframe.

A review of the pilot's medical records by the NTSB Medical Officer was conducted. On the pilot's most recent application for a second-class airman medical certificate, the pilot had indicated "Yes" in response to questions regarding both substance dependence and alcohol dependence or abuse. Under the section titled "Comments on History and Findings," the pilot noted involvement in an airplane crash and stated that substance abuse was involved.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-09-15 Cessna 185F accident near Somerville, NJ?

An aircraft veered off a runway after landing, striking parked aircraft and entering a hangar during an excursion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-09-15 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N29BF, operated by Michael Foise, at Somerville, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while landing. A factor was the pilot's impairment due to the influence of non-prescribed pain medication.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040930X01540. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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