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Casualties unknown

Student Pilot's Solo Flight Ends in Runway Excursion (N49485)

Wonder Lake, IL, US

On February 26, 1991, a Cessna 152 (registration N49485) operated by Galt Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Wonder Lake, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE STUDENT PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF. HER LACK OF FLYING EXPEREINCE WAS A RELATED FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During her third takeoff on a supervised solo flight, a student pilot's airplane yawed left, departed the runway, and struck a plowed field.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting her first supervised solo flight, performing a series of takeoffs and landings. During the third takeoff ground roll, the airplane unexpectedly yawed to the left and departed the left side of the runway.

Sequence of Events

The runway measured 3,100 feet in length and 36 feet in width. After leaving the runway, the airplane crossed a sod clearway and a taxiway before colliding with a plowed field. The winds in the area surrounding the airport were reported from the west/southwest at 6 and 12 knots.

Related Information

No other details regarding the aircraft, operator, or occupants have been specified. The incident occurred during the student pilot's third takeoff and landing of the session.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Feb 1991 Cessna 152 accident near Wonder Lake, IL?

During her third takeoff on a supervised solo flight, a student pilot's airplane yawed left, departed the runway, and struck a plowed field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Feb 1991 involved a Cessna 152, registration N49485, operated by Galt Flying Service, at Wonder Lake, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE STUDENT PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF. HER LACK OF FLYING EXPEREINCE WAS A RELATED FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16430. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.