Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172N near Floresville, TX — 2012-02-10

Final reportCEN12FA154
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Date
2012-02-10
Location
Floresville, TX, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 172N
Registration
N5427J
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1

Probable cause

The medical incapacitation of the pilot due to a sudden cardiac arrhythmia or acute myocardial infarction.

NTSB narrative

During a local flight, the pilot contacted an air traffic controller and stated he was returning to his departure airfield. Subsequently, the airplane disappeared from radar, and there was no reported distress call from the pilot or witnesses to the accident. The wreckage was found in an open field. At the time of the accident, visual meteorological conditions prevailed. Impact markings were consistent with the airplane having been in about a 90-degree nose-low attitude when it impacted terrain. An examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any preimpact anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. An autopsy performed on the pilot noted evidence of an enlarged heart and extensive coronary artery disease. Given this information and the pilot’s history of a left anterior hemiblock, it is likely that the pilot became incapacitated due to a sudden cardiac arrhythmia or acute myocardial infarction.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen to land instead of continuing flight under uncertain conditions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • ADS-B / radar
  • Photos
  • 12 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents12

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