Casualties unknown

Touch-and-Go Landing Accident Following Uncontrolled Descent on Final Approach (N986AC)

Kill Devil Hlls, NC, US

On September 17, 2004, a Cessna 172L (registration N986AC) operated by Wright Flight, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Kill Devil Hlls, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An in-flight encounter with a downdraft on final approach, which resulted in a loss of control of the airplane and subsequent collision with the ground. 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

During a series of touch-and-go landings, the airplane sank uncontrollably on final approach from about 70 feet, leading to collision with the ground.

Background

The pilot had completed seven or eight touch-and-go landings without incident. The final approach for the last touch-and-go proceeded normally until the airplane was about 70 feet above the ground.

Event

While on final approach at approximately 70 feet above ground level, the airplane began to sink uncontrollably. The pilot reported adding power, but the descent continued until the airplane collided with the ground.

Weather Information

A review of recorded weather data for the airport indicated that at 1021, the wind was from 150 degrees at 8 knots, with direction variable between 121 and 181 degrees; the sky was clear. At 1100, the wind was from 150 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 15 knots, with direction variable between 131 and 201 degrees; the sky was scattered at 3,000, 5,000, and 9,000 feet. Satellite imagery revealed the presence of cumulus clouds in the area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Sept 2004 Cessna 172L accident near Kill Devil Hlls, NC?

During a series of touch-and-go landings, the airplane sank uncontrollably on final approach from about 70 feet, leading to collision with the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Sept 2004 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N986AC, operated by Wright Flight, Inc., at Kill Devil Hlls, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An in-flight encounter with a downdraft on final approach, which resulted in a loss of control of the airplane and subsequent collision with the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041015X01639. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.