Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Bounce, Crosswind Causes Runway Excursion (N6721H)

Healdsburg, CA, US

On June 16, 1985, a Cessna 172M (registration N6721H) operated by Louise . Peters was involved in an aviation accident near Healdsburg, CA. 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 reported a normal approach until descent stopped at the runway threshold. After applying full flaps, lift was lost. A go-around was attempted but the aircraft bounced, then a crosswind gust caused it to veer off the runway, down an embankment, and into a gully, where it nosed over.

Approach and Landing

The pilot reported that the approach was normal until reaching the runway threshold, at which point the descent appeared to stop. A headwind of 30 knots was reported. The pilot then selected full flaps.

Loss of Lift and Go-Around Attempt

Moments later, lift was lost. The pilot applied full power for a go-around. However, the aircraft touched down and bounced.

Runway Excursion

According to the pilot, a gust of crosswind caught the aircraft, causing it to windmill off the runway. The aircraft then traveled down an embankment and into a gully, where it nosed over.

Outcome

The aircraft came to rest in a nosed-over position in the gully. No further details about injuries or damage were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1985 Cessna 172M accident near Healdsburg, CA?

A pilot reported a normal approach until descent stopped at the runway threshold. After applying full flaps, lift was lost. A go-around was attempted but the aircraft bounced, then a crosswind gust caused it to veer off the runway, down an embankment, and into a gully, where it nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1985 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N6721H, operated by Louise . Peters, at Healdsburg, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36818. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.