On March 15, 1985, a Cessna 172N (registration N3421E) was involved in an aviation accident near Crystal Lake, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and nosing over. 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.
A Cessna aircraft veered right during landing roll, exited the runway into soft terrain, and struck a snow bank, causing it to nose over. No mechanical issues were found.
What happened
The pilot reported that as he lowered the nosewheel onto the runway during the landing roll, the aircraft began to veer to the right. As the right main gear left the side of the runway, it entered soft terrain which pulled the Cessna 172 further to the right. Subsequently, the nose gear hit a dirt and snow bank, then the N78910 nosed over.
The investigation
A mechanical examination of the brakes and steering system revealed no discrepancies. Weather conditions about 17 miles south at Crystal Lake showed wind from 200 degrees at 6 knots.
Findings
The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll led to the aircraft exiting the runway. The veering to the right was likely due to uneven braking or crosswind effects, though no mechanical faults were identified.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and nosing over.
What happened in the 15 Mar 1985 Cessna 172N accident near Crystal Lake, IL?
A Cessna aircraft veered right during landing roll, exited the runway into soft terrain, and struck a snow bank, causing it to nose over. No mechanical issues were found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Mar 1985 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N3421E, at Crystal Lake, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and nosing over.
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