Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Loses Control During Crosswind Landing at Thermal Airport (N734TE)

Thermal, CA, US

On May 13, 1986, a Cessna 172N (registration N734TE) operated by Viair was involved in an aviation accident near Thermal, CA. 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 student pilot on a solo cross-country flight lost control while landing on Runway 30 at Thermal Airport, California, due to a right crosswind. The aircraft exited the runway and nosed over. The pilot reported brake failure, but post-accident inspection found no pre-existing malfunctions.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was returning to Thermal Airport in Thermal, California, after completing a solo cross-country flight. During the landing on Runway 30, the aircraft encountered a 90-degree right crosswind, causing the pilot to lose control. The airplane subsequently exited the end of the runway and nosed over.

Pilot Report and Brake System Examination

The student pilot reported that the brake system had failed during the landing. However, a post-accident examination of the brake system revealed no evidence of any pre-existing malfunctions or failures. The inspection did not identify any mechanical issues that would have prevented normal brake operation.

Additional Details

The incident occurred during daylight hours at Thermal Airport, a general aviation airport located in Riverside County, California. The student pilot was operating the aircraft solo at the time of the accident. No other individuals were involved, and there is no information regarding injuries or specific damage to the aircraft beyond the nosed-over condition.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 May 1986 Cessna 172N accident near Thermal, CA?

A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight lost control while landing on Runway 30 at Thermal Airport, California, due to a right crosswind. The aircraft exited the runway and nosed over. The pilot reported brake failure, but post-accident inspection found no pre-existing malfunctions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 May 1986 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N734TE, operated by Viair, at Thermal, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33597. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.