On March 27, 1991, a Cessna 172 (registration N1743V) operated by Hoffner, Jacob G. was involved in an aviation accident near Yankton, SD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout due to gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft striking an airport sign. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a landing attempt, gusty winds pushed the aircraft off the runway centerline, causing it to strike an airport sign and damage the left horizontal stabilizer before the pilot successfully realigned and landed.
What happened
The pilot reported that during the final approach for landing, strong gusting winds affected the aircraft's trajectory. As the plane neared the runway threshold, a sudden crosswind component blew the aircraft to the left of the intended flight path.
Consequently, the airframe made contact with an airport sign located near the runway edge. This impact resulted in damage to the left horizontal stabilizer. Although the pilot initially evaluated the option of executing a go-around maneuver, they determined that continuing the landing was feasible.
The pilot managed to realign the airplane with the remaining usable portion of the runway. The aircraft subsequently touched down safely without any further incidents or complications.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout due to gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft striking an airport sign.
What happened in the 27 Mar 1991 Cessna 172 accident near Yankton, SD?
During a landing attempt, gusty winds pushed the aircraft off the runway centerline, causing it to strike an airport sign and damage the left horizontal stabilizer before the pilot successfully realigned and landed.
Were there any fatalities in the 27 Mar 1991 Cessna 172 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Mar 1991 involved a Cessna 172, registration N1743V, operated by Hoffner, Jacob G., at Yankton, SD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout due to gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft striking an airport sign.
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