Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172S near Lincoln Park, NJ — 2011-07-23

Final reportERA11LA421
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Date
2011-07-23
Location
Lincoln Park, NJ, USA
Airport
NO7
Aircraft
CESSNA 172S
Registration
N869BC
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper touchdown point, resulting in a runway overrun and collision with a guardrail.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, the airplane experienced a total electrical failure shortly after takeoff, rendering the flaps inoperable. Witnesses observed the airplane land at a high rate of speed, two-thirds down the 2,942-foot runway. The airplane subsequently overran the runway and collided with a guardrail. The pilot reported that the airplane had poor braking performance and that it was not possible to stop on the remaining runway. Examination of the airplane’s wheel braking system revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane’s pilot operating handbook stated that the airplane is approved for a no-flap landing between 74 knots and 84 knots and requires a landing distance of 1,945 feet. Evidence indicates that the pilot landed too far down the runway to stop the airplane on the remaining runway. Examination of the airplane’s electrical system found an incorrect electrical contactor installed in the electrical master control unit, which resulted in overheating of the component and the loss of electrical power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have delayed takeoff until electrical issues were fully resolved.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 8 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents8

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