On April 27, 1985, a Cessna 172H (registration N8052L) was involved in an aviation accident near Middletown, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to strong winds during the approach for a forced landing after a power loss. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft nosed over in a plowed field during a forced landing after experiencing power loss during cruise flight, with strong winds complicating the approach to a nearby airport.
What happened
The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power while cruising. Following this failure, the pilot declared an emergency and initiated a slide toward a nearby airport for a potential landing. However, strong winds interfered with the planned approach, causing the aircraft to settle in a plowed field instead. During the landing, the nose gear was sheared off.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the power loss and the subsequent forced landing. The pilot's actions, including declaring an emergency and attempting to reach the nearby airport, were reviewed. The interference from strong winds during the approach was noted as a significant factor in the outcome.
Findings
The aircraft nosed over in a plowed field during a forced landing.
The nose gear was sheared during the landing.
Strong winds interfered with the planned approach to the nearby airport.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to strong winds during the approach for a forced landing after a power loss.
What happened in the 27 Apr 1985 Cessna 172H accident near Middletown, PA?
An aircraft nosed over in a plowed field during a forced landing after experiencing power loss during cruise flight, with strong winds complicating the approach to a nearby airport.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Apr 1985 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N8052L, at Middletown, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to strong winds during the approach for a forced landing after a power loss.
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