Casualties unknown

Runway Overrun Following Ground Effect During Landing (N680SP)

Atlantic City, NJ, US

On March 6, 2006, a Cessna 172S (registration N680SP) operated by Ken Nierenberg was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic City, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to obtain a proper touchdown point, which resulted in an overrun of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions after the airplane encountered ground effect during landing, floated down the runway, and overran the end, resulting in substantial damage.

Approach and Glidepath

During the approach to the runway, the visual approach slope indicator (VASI) indicated that the airplane was following the correct glidepath. The pilot observed the lights showing a proper descent profile.

Landing and Float

As the airplane transitioned to the landing phase, it encountered ground effect. This caused the aircraft to float above the runway surface, traveling further down the runway than intended. The pilot considered aborting the landing but ultimately decided to complete the landing.

Braking and Overrun

After the wheels touched down, the pilot applied full braking pressure. Despite this, the airplane could not stop before reaching the end of the runway. It overran the runway, sustaining substantial damage in the process.

Mechanical Condition

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane prior to or during the flight. The airplane was in normal operating condition according to the pilot's account.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Mar 2006 Cessna 172S accident near Atlantic City, NJ?

A pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions after the airplane encountered ground effect during landing, floated down the runway, and overran the end, resulting in substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Mar 2006 involved a Cessna 172S, registration N680SP, operated by Ken Nierenberg, at Atlantic City, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to obtain a proper touchdown point, which resulted 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/20060325X00345. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.