Casualties unknown

Nose Gear Landing Precedes Runway Excursion in Cessna 182L (N42599)

Concord, CA, US

On April 6, 1990, a Cessna 182L (registration N42599) operated by Jeffrey M Masonek was involved in an aviation accident near Concord, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO PROPERLY JUDGE THE TIMING OF THE LANDING FLARE. 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 landing, a Cessna 182L touched down on its nose gear, causing the pilot to lose control. The aircraft exited the runway and hit rough dirt areas. The student pilot reported encountering wind shear or strong crosswind before touchdown.

Incident Overview

During the landing phase, a Cessna 182L made contact with the runway on its nose gear. This resulted in the pilot losing directional control of the aircraft. The airplane subsequently departed the right side of the runway and struck uneven dirt areas adjacent to the landing surface.

Pilot Statement

The student pilot at the controls stated that he experienced either a wind shear or a strong crosswind immediately before touchdown. However, no pilot reports of wind shear activity were filed either before or after the accident.

Crosswind Conditions

An evaluation of meteorological data indicated that the direct crosswind component present at the time of the accident was determined to be 10 knots below the maximum demonstrated crosswind component for the Cessna 182L, as specified by the manufacturer.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Apr 1990 Cessna 182L accident near Concord, CA?

During landing, a Cessna 182L touched down on its nose gear, causing the pilot to lose control. The aircraft exited the runway and hit rough dirt areas. The student pilot reported encountering wind shear or strong crosswind before touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Apr 1990 involved a Cessna 182L, registration N42599, operated by Jeffrey M Masonek, at Concord, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO PROPERLY JUDGE THE TIMING OF THE LANDING FLARE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22945. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.