Casualties unknown

Aircraft Skids Off Runway into Snow Bank During Landing (N4852G)

Grand Canyon, AZ, US

On January 28, 1985, a Cessna 172N (registration N4852G) was involved in an aviation accident near Grand Canyon, AZ. 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 private pilot attempted to steer to the middle of a 150-ft wide runway after landing on the right half; the aircraft skidded off the left side and contacted a snow bank.

Pilot Information

The pilot, a 50-year-old private pilot, held a total of 158 flight hours. He was operating the aircraft at the time of the incident.

Landing and Accident Sequence

The pilot reported that the landing was made on the right half of the runway, which measured 150 feet in width. As he attempted to steer the aircraft toward the middle of the runway, the aircraft skidded off the left side of the runway. After departing the runway surface, the aircraft contacted a snow bank located approximately 3,000 feet from the approach end of the runway.

Weather and Conditions

A weather observation taken immediately after the accident recorded wind from 190 degrees at 13 knots. The presence of a snow bank suggests winter conditions with snow on the ground adjacent to the runway.

Aircraft Condition

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the aircraft. No other issues with the aircraft's systems or controls were noted.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jan 1985 Cessna 172N accident near Grand Canyon, AZ?

A private pilot attempted to steer to the middle of a 150-ft wide runway after landing on the right half; the aircraft skidded off the left side and contacted a snow bank.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jan 1985 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4852G, at Grand Canyon, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35562. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.