Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Conducts Precautionary Landing After Losing Altitude in Snow Showers (N95684)

Erskine, MN, US

On January 21, 1991, a Cessna 152 (registration N95684) operated by University OF North Dakota was involved in an aviation accident near Erskine, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING THE PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. A FACTOR WAS THE INSTRUCTOR PILOT'S INADEQUATE SUPERVISION OF THE FLIGHT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 16 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight made a precautionary landing on a rural road after encountering snow showers, turbulence, and marginal visibility, then lost directional control and nosed over into a snowbank.

Incident Overview

A student pilot flying a solo cross-country flight reported encountering adverse weather conditions, including snow showers, turbulence, and reduced visibility. In response, she initiated a 180-degree turn toward a nearby airport. However, during the turn, the aircraft lost altitude while contending with turbulence.

Precautionary Landing

Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot decided to attempt a precautionary landing on a rural road. The landing roll was initiated, but directional control was lost during the rollout.

Collision and Outcome

The airplane subsequently collided with a snowbank and nosed over. The source does not specify injuries, damage, or aircraft details beyond the described sequence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16294. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.