On December 24, 2006, a Cessna 172N (registration N4811G) was involved in an aviation accident near Cottonwood Fall, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the fence. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inability to properly identify the runway environment, and the improper in-flight decision to initiate a go-around. 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.
A pilot mistook an adjacent road for a dirt runway, touched down, then initiated a go-around, striking a barbed wire fence and causing substantial damage. The pilot subsequently landed on the runway without further incident.
Incident Summary
A pilot experienced difficulty distinguishing a dirt runway from an adjacent road during landing. Upon touchdown, the pilot realized the road was not the intended runway and immediately initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft struck and "broke through" a barbed wire fence adjacent to the road, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. The pilot continued the go-around and subsequently landed on the runway without further incident.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the airplane's systems revealed no anomalies. The pilot reported no issues with the aircraft's performance or handling throughout the event. The investigation noted the pilot's successful completion of the go-around and landing after the fence strike.
What happened in the 24 Dec 2006 Cessna 172N accident near Cottonwood Fall, KS?
A pilot mistook an adjacent road for a dirt runway, touched down, then initiated a go-around, striking a barbed wire fence and causing substantial damage. The pilot subsequently landed on the runway without further incident.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Dec 2006 Cessna 172N accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Dec 2006 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4811G, at Cottonwood Fall, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the fence. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inability to properly identify the runway environment, and the improper in-flight decision to initiate a go-around.
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