Casualties unknown

Pilot Diverts Due to Communication Difficulties, Lands Short of Runway (N13030)

Junction City, KS, US

On November 9, 1984, a Cessna R172E (registration N13030) operated by Red Leg Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Junction City, KS. 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 diverted to an uncontrolled airport due to communications difficulties and traffic considerations. Unable to contact UNICOM, he circled for traffic and wind evaluation. Selecting the best runway, he misjudged headwind strength and touched down short of the threshold in a plowed area, causing the aircraft to nose down in soft terrain.

Incident Summary

A pilot experiencing communication difficulties diverted from the intended destination to a nearby uncontrolled airport. The diversion was prompted by traffic considerations at the original destination. Upon arrival, the pilot was unable to contact the airport's UNICOM frequency.

Sequence of Events

Unable to establish radio contact, the pilot elected to circle the airport for traffic and wind evaluation. After assessing conditions, the pilot selected the runway that appeared best suited for the wind direction and commenced an approach. On final approach, the pilot observed that the rate of descent relative to ground speed indicated a stronger headwind than initially estimated. Despite this observation, the pilot did not increase engine power to compensate. The aircraft touched down short of the runway threshold, in a plowed area. The soft terrain caused the nose of the aircraft to pitch forward.

Post-landing Assessment

After deplaning, the pilot evaluated the wind conditions, estimating the wind speed to be 15 to 20 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Nov 1984 Cessna R172E accident near Junction City, KS?

A pilot diverted to an uncontrolled airport due to communications difficulties and traffic considerations. Unable to contact UNICOM, he circled for traffic and wind evaluation. Selecting the best runway, he misjudged headwind strength and touched down short of the threshold in a plowed area, causing the aircraft to…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Nov 1984 involved a Cessna R172E, registration N13030, operated by Red Leg Flying Club, at Junction City, KS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41647. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.