NTSB Reports

The pilot reported attempting to activate the airports pilot-controlled lighting (PCL) system, but was unsuccessful. He continued toward the airport and, while maneuvering for a landing, he lost sight of the airport. The pilot continued to descend, however, and the airplane sustained substantial damage when it impacted a fence adjacent to the runway at around 1650 Central time. The private airports owner reported the PCL does not receive signals from the southeast, due to obstructions. The accident airplane was approaching from the southeast.

Editorial Staff

Friday, February 23, 2018 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

A significant number of incidents involved engine failures or power loss, often resulting in forced landings and, in several cases, fatal outcomes.
Numerous accidents occurred during the critical approach and landing phases, with common issues including landing gear malfunctions, loss of control, and difficulties with airport lighting systems.
Adverse weather conditions, such as dense fog, low visibility, or night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), were a contributing factor in several fatal accidents, sometimes compounded by apparent pilot errors in judgment or procedure.

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December 2, 2017, Plato Center, Ill.

Pulsar 912XP Experimental

The pilot reported attempting to activate the airport’s pilot-controlled lighting (PCL) system, but was unsuccessful. He continued toward the airport and, while maneuvering for a landing, he lost sight of the airport. The pilot continued to descend, however, and the airplane sustained substantial damage when it impacted a fence adjacent to the runway at around 1650 Central time. The private airport’s owner reported the PCL does not receive signals from the southeast, due to obstructions. The accident airplane was approaching from the southeast.