No fatalities

Unplanned Landing on Icy Runway Results in Slide into Snowbank (N55409)

New Holstein, WI, US

On January 1, 1991, a Cessna 172P (registration N55409) operated by Stick And Rudder Club was involved in an aviation accident near New Holstein, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DECISION TO CONTINUE THE LANDING APPROACH, LANDING ON AN ICE COVERED RUNWAY AND THE INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE CROSWIND. 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 an unplanned landing at an uncontrolled airport, a pilot encountered clear ice on the runway. After touchdown, the aircraft yawed left and slid into a snowbank, sustaining substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducting an unplanned landing at an uncontrolled airport experienced a loss of directional control after touchdown. The pilot had performed a flyover inspection of the airport but did not identify clear ice on the runway surface. During the final approach, the pilot became aware of the icy condition.

Approach and Landing

The pilot decided to land at a slow speed with full flaps while managing a direct left crosswind. The pilot employed a crab-to-slip method for crosswind correction, transitioning to a side slip approximately 2 to 3 feet above the ground.

Loss of Control

Upon touchdown, the airplane yawed left and subsequently slid to the right, striking a snowbank. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Remarks

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or occupants were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Jan 1991 Cessna 172P accident near New Holstein, WI?

During an unplanned landing at an uncontrolled airport, a pilot encountered clear ice on the runway. After touchdown, the aircraft yawed left and slid into a snowbank, sustaining substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 1 Jan 1991 Cessna 172P accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Jan 1991 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N55409, operated by Stick And Rudder Club, at New Holstein, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S DECISION TO CONTINUE THE LANDING APPROACH, LANDING ON AN ICE COVERED RUNWAY AND THE INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE CROSWIND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16276. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.