Casualties unknown

Cessna P210N Veers Off Runway and Noses Over After Colliding with Sand Bank (N818BF)

Palm Springs, CA, US

On May 31, 1991, a Cessna P210N (registration N818BF) operated by Robert A. Coveney was involved in an aviation accident near Palm Springs, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING THE LANDING ROLL. 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 Cessna P210N veered left during the landing roll on Runway 12, exited the runway, struck a sand bank, and nosed over. Winds were from 130 degrees at 15 knots.

Accident Sequence

During landing on Runway 12, the Cessna P210N drifted to the left as the pilot decelerated with brake application. The pilot reported applying full right rudder, but the airplane continued turning left and departed the runway. It then collided with a sand bank and nosed over.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the airplane drifted left during the landing roll despite the application of brakes and full right rudder. The airplane's leftward movement persisted, leading to the runway excursion.

Weather Conditions

Meteorological reports indicated winds from 130 degrees at 15 knots at the time of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 May 1991 Cessna P210N accident near Palm Springs, CA?

A Cessna P210N veered left during the landing roll on Runway 12, exited the runway, struck a sand bank, and nosed over. Winds were from 130 degrees at 15 knots.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 May 1991 involved a Cessna P210N, registration N818BF, operated by Robert A. Coveney, at Palm Springs, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING THE LANDING ROLL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17058. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.