Casualties unknown

Pilot Practices Landings on Gravel Road; Aircraft Strikes Fence Post and Nose Over (N5325D)

Toston, MT, US

On October 15, 1982, a Cessna 172N (registration N5325D) operated by Gerald P. Kitto was involved in an aviation accident near Toston, MT. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot practicing landings on a gravel road executed a go-around after a high approach. On the second landing, the aircraft porpoised, and during a subsequent go-around, the left stabilizer struck a fence post, leading to a nose-over.

Approach and Landing

The pilot elected to practice landings on a gravel road. During the first approach, he was high and elected to go around. On the second approach, a landing was made. The pilot reported that during touchdown, the airspeed was fast and the aircraft began to porpoise.

Go-Around and Impact

When it became obvious that there was insufficient room to complete the landing, a go-around was initiated. After lift-off, the aircraft's left stabilizer struck a fence post. Subsequently, the aircraft settled, the nosewheel struck an irrigation system, and the plane nosed over.

Environmental Conditions

The density altitude was about 4700 ft.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 1982 Cessna 172N accident near Toston, MT?

A pilot practicing landings on a gravel road executed a go-around after a high approach. On the second landing, the aircraft porpoised, and during a subsequent go-around, the left stabilizer struck a fence post, leading to a nose-over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 1982 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N5325D, operated by Gerald P. Kitto, at Toston, MT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04557. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.