Casualties unknown

Pilot Nosed Over Aircraft After Landing in Brush During Cross-Country Flight (N733CH)

Isle, MN, US

On July 23, 1982, a Cessna 172N (registration N733CH) operated by Keith C. Kodalen was involved in an aviation accident near Isle, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the final approach, resulting in a premature descent and landing short of the runway in vegetation. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landing on a private airstrip encountered difficulty settling short of the runway. The aircraft touched down in brush and long grass, resulting in a nose-over incident.

What happened

The pilot was conducting a cross-country flight when he initiated an approach to a private airstrip. Weather conditions were reported as good with light turbulence. Approximately 100 feet from the threshold, the aircraft began to settle. The pilot attempted to add power to arrest the descent, but the plane touched down in brush and long grass. The impact caused the aircraft to nosed over.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was the aircraft's inability to clear the obstacle-free zone due to premature settling. The presence of brush and long grass at the touchdown point exacerbated the outcome, leading to the nose-over. No further mechanical issues were identified during the investigation.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the final approach, resulting in a premature descent and landing short of the runway in vegetation.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Jul 1982 Cessna 172N accident near Isle, MN?

A pilot landing on a private airstrip encountered difficulty settling short of the runway. The aircraft touched down in brush and long grass, resulting in a nose-over incident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Jul 1982 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N733CH, operated by Keith C. Kodalen, at Isle, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the final approach, resulting in a premature descent and landing short of the runway in vegetation.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02997. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.