Casualties unknown

Aircraft Veers into Ditch After Landing; Pilot Cites Passenger Rudder Input (N5374U)

Perris Valley, CA, US

On September 4, 1982, a Cessna 206 (registration N5374U) operated by Aero Flite was involved in an aviation accident near Perris Valley, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

A pilot reported that after touching down left of runway centerline, the aircraft veered right and collided with a ditch. The pilot stated he believed the passenger applied right rudder several times.

Event Description

A pilot reported that the aircraft touched down slightly left of the runway centerline during landing. As the pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft back to center, it veered sharply to the right. The pilot observed a ditch ahead and applied full engine power. The aircraft became airborne briefly before colliding with the ditch.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he believes his passenger applied right rudder several times during the sequence of events. This account is the only description of the incident provided. No other details about the aircraft, occupants, or environmental conditions were included.

Additional Context

The pilot's narrative indicates that after touchdown, the attempt to correct the alignment was followed by a sudden veer to the right. The application of full power occurred when the ditch was seen ahead. The aircraft's short flight ended with the collision.

Outcome

The aircraft collided with the ditch. The extent of damage or any injuries was not reported in the source. No information was given about the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, or date of the occurrence.

All Cessna 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Sept 1982 Cessna 206 accident near Perris Valley, CA?

A pilot reported that after touching down left of runway centerline, the aircraft veered right and collided with a ditch. The pilot stated he believed the passenger applied right rudder several times.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Sept 1982 involved a Cessna 206, registration N5374U, operated by Aero Flite, at Perris Valley, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04739. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.