Casualties unknown

Aircraft Veers Left During Runway 13 Landing in Crosswind, Damaged After Aborted Go-Around (N89594)

Savanna, IL, US

On April 8, 1990, a Cessna 172P (registration N89594) was involved in an aviation accident near Savanna, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT. THE STRONG/GUSTY CROSSWIND WAS A RELATED FACTOR. 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 landing on runway 13 with winds from 230° at 17 gusting 25 knots experienced a veer-off, initiated a go-around, then touched down in soft grass, losing speed. Aborting the go-around, the aircraft could not stop before entering a ditch and sustaining damage.

Landing Attempt and Veer-Off

During an attempted landing on runway 13, the pilot faced crosswind conditions. A nearby station reported winds from 230 degrees at 17 knots, gusting to 25 knots. After touchdown, the aircraft veered to the left and departed the runway surface.

Go-Around and Subsequent Touchdown

The pilot initiated a go-around. He reported that the aircraft lifted off, but then touched down again in an area described as 'soft grass.' This touchdown caused a loss of speed.

Aborted Go-Around and Damage

After the unintended touchdown, the pilot aborted the go-around. However, he was unable to bring the aircraft to a stop before it went through a ditch. The aircraft sustained damage as a result of the ditch impact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 1990 Cessna 172P accident near Savanna, IL?

A pilot landing on runway 13 with winds from 230° at 17 gusting 25 knots experienced a veer-off, initiated a go-around, then touched down in soft grass, losing speed. Aborting the go-around, the aircraft could not stop before entering a ditch and sustaining damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 1990 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N89594, at Savanna, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT. THE STRONG/GUSTY CROSSWIND WAS A RELATED FACTOR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22879. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.