Casualties unknown

Landing Balloon Leads to Wing Tip Strike During Crosswind (N3112A)

Turner, ME, US

On April 26, 1984, a Cessna 170B (registration N3112A) was involved in an aviation accident near Turner, ME. 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

Witnesses observed an aircraft balloon to 20 feet during landing, resulting in a right wing tip ground contact before climbing out of sight. Strong gusty crosswind reported.

Incident Description

During a landing approach, witnesses observed the aircraft with flaps extended. The pilot executed a flare near the approach end of the runway, but the aircraft subsequently ballooned to approximately 20 feet above ground level. It then descended once more to the runway surface. Upon touchdown, the right wing tip appeared to make contact with the ground. Power was then applied, and the aircraft climbed out of view behind nearby buildings. No witnesses observed the subsequent impact.

Witness Observations

Multiple witnesses reported the aircraft's approach and landing sequence. The aircraft was seen with flaps down as it neared the runway. After the initial flare, the unexpected ballooning occurred, followed by a second descent. The wing tip strike was visually observed by witnesses. After adding power, the aircraft climbed away and disappeared from sight behind structures, with no further visual observations of its fate.

Weather Conditions

Witnesses reported strong and gusty crosswind conditions, with the wind coming from the right at speeds between 25 and 30 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Apr 1984 Cessna 170B accident near Turner, ME?

Witnesses observed an aircraft balloon to 20 feet during landing, resulting in a right wing tip ground contact before climbing out of sight. Strong gusty crosswind reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Apr 1984 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N3112A, at Turner, ME.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39383. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.