Casualties unknown

Hard Landing on Grass Strip Results in Nose Gear Collapse (CGFIE)

Thurmont, MD, US

On July 8, 1985, a Cessna 172-RG (registration CGFIE) was involved in an aviation accident near Thurmont, MD. 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 performed a hard landing on a grass airstrip after descending due to low ceiling, precipitation, and haze. The nose gear collapsed and separated, causing the airplane to skid and come to rest on its bottom cowling and main gear.

Incident Overview

A pilot encountered low ceiling, precipitation, and haze at approximately 1,500 feet MSL. In response, the pilot initiated a descent to locate a suitable landing area. During the descent, the pilot observed a grass airstrip below.

Sequence of Events

Upon reaching the grass airstrip, the pilot executed a hard landing. The aircraft bounced once during the touchdown. On the second touchdown, the nose gear collapsed and separated from the aircraft. The airplane then skidded down the airstrip, coming to rest on its bottom cowling and main landing gear.

Conclusion

The aircraft sustained damage with the nose gear separated and the airplane resting on its bottom cowling and main gear. The incident involved a hard landing on a grass surface following a descent due to poor visibility conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 1985 Cessna 172-RG accident near Thurmont, MD?

A pilot performed a hard landing on a grass airstrip after descending due to low ceiling, precipitation, and haze. The nose gear collapsed and separated, causing the airplane to skid and come to rest on its bottom cowling and main gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 1985 involved a Cessna 172-RG, registration CGFIE, at Thurmont, MD.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37000. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.