Casualties unknown

Pilot Makes Forced Landing on Forest Road After Low Ceiling Encounter; Wind Gust Leads to Gear Failure (N1026M)

Lake City, FL, US

On February 28, 1982, a Cessna 172L (registration N1026M) operated by Sergeant Aviation Inc, was involved in an aviation accident near Lake City, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

A pilot encountered restricted visibility and a 300-ft ceiling en route, reversed course, and landed on a forest road. During the landing roll, a wind gust caused the plane to drift into a ditch, resulting in nose and right main landing gear failure and other damage.

Landing on Forest Road

While en route, the pilot of an aircraft encountered an area with restricted visibility and an estimated ceiling of 300 feet. The pilot reversed course and, after sighting a forest road, elected to land on it.

Wind Gust Encounter

During the landing roll, a gust of wind was encountered, causing the aircraft to drift to the right and enter a drainage ditch. As a result, the nose landing gear and right main landing gear failed. The aircraft then traveled backward before coming to a stop, sustaining additional damage during the process.

Post-Accident Conditions

At the accident site, the pilot estimated the ceiling to be 500 feet and wind gusts up to 15 knots. No other details regarding the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Feb 1982 Cessna 172L accident near Lake City, FL?

A pilot encountered restricted visibility and a 300-ft ceiling en route, reversed course, and landed on a forest road. During the landing roll, a wind gust caused the plane to drift into a ditch, resulting in nose and right main landing gear failure and other damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Feb 1982 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N1026M, operated by Sergeant Aviation Inc,, at Lake City, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02357. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.