Casualties unknown

Instructor and Student Experience Upset During Low-Altitude Runway Maneuver (N9355H)

Sylva, NC, US

On June 12, 1987, a Cessna 172M (registration N9355H) operated by Ernest C. Jones was involved in an aviation accident near Sylva, NC. 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

During a training flight, a CFI instructed a student to fly at 10 feet above the runway. The airplane encountered a gust, rolled sharply, and the CFI maneuvered to clear a hill, contacting treetops and settling into trees.

Overview

A flight instructor (CFI) was conducting a training flight with a low-time beginning student. The CFI directed the student to perform a normal approach to the runway and then fly down the runway at approximately 10 feet above the runway surface while maintaining runway heading. According to the CFI, the purpose of the maneuver was to help the student improve his directional control and correct for crosswind conditions. The CFI indicated that he would handle the throttle during the maneuver.

Sequence of Events

While the airplane was over the runway, it encountered a gust of wind. In response, the airplane rolled sharply to the right. The CFI assumed control of the airplane and applied full-up elevator input to clear a hill located adjacent to the runway. As the airplane cleared the hill, it contacted treetops. Subsequently, the airplane settled into trees on the other side of the hill.

Aftermath

The report does not specify any injuries or damage to the airplane beyond the contact with treetops and settling into trees. The aircraft's final resting position was among trees on the far side of the hill.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jun 1987 Cessna 172M accident near Sylva, NC?

During a training flight, a CFI instructed a student to fly at 10 feet above the runway. The airplane encountered a gust, rolled sharply, and the CFI maneuvered to clear a hill, contacting treetops and settling into trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jun 1987 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N9355H, operated by Ernest C. Jones, at Sylva, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31096. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.