Casualties unknown

Cessna 185 Main Gear Fails During Crosswind Landing Checkout (N1686Z)

Hillsboro, ND, US

On July 28, 1987, a Cessna 185A (registration N1686Z) operated by Jeff Faught was involved in an aviation accident near Hillsboro, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the main gear during a crosswind landing maneuver while the student pilot was receiving dual instruction for a checkout in the Cessna 185. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot practicing crosswind landings in a Cessna 185 experienced gear failure after the aircraft weathervaned during rollout at an unspecified airport.

What happened

The private pilot was receiving dual instruction specifically for a checkout in a Cessna 185. During the training maneuver, the student pilot executed a landing on runway 34 while encountering a right crosswind. As the aircraft rolled out, it began to weathervane into the wind, causing the right wing to rise significantly.

Although the flight instructor attempted remedial action to correct the situation, the main gear failed as the aircraft left the runway surface. The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight.

Probable cause

The failure of the main gear during a crosswind landing maneuver while the student pilot was receiving dual instruction for a checkout in the Cessna 185.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 1987 Cessna 185A accident near Hillsboro, ND?

A student pilot practicing crosswind landings in a Cessna 185 experienced gear failure after the aircraft weathervaned during rollout at an unspecified airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 1987 involved a Cessna 185A, registration N1686Z, operated by Jeff Faught, at Hillsboro, ND.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the main gear during a crosswind landing maneuver while the student pilot was receiving dual instruction for a checkout in the Cessna 185.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31490. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.