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Casualties unknown

Float Landing on Short Runway Leads to Runway Excursion and Collision with Pole (N1241U)

Keenesburg, CO, US

On June 23, 1991, a Cessna 172M (registration N1241U) operated by Northern Colorado Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Keenesburg, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S MISJUDGING THE APPROACH, AND DISREGARD OF WIND CONDITIONS. FACTORS WERE: A TAILWIND CONDITION AND THE PILOT'S ANXIETY. 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

After passengers became airsick, a pilot elected to land at his farm airstrip. A rushed approach resulted in excessive float, insufficient runway, and collision with a telephone pole.

Landing Decision

The pilot decided to land at his farm airstrip after his passengers became airsick. He was anxious to land and rushed the approach.

Approach

The approach was made to the north onto a 5,000-foot dirt runway. Final approach speed was 80 knots indicated airspeed. Winds were from the south, but the pilot did not consider them a factor because the runway was about 5,000 feet long.

Runway Excursion

The airplane floated a considerable distance before touching down, and it became apparent that insufficient runway remained to bring the airplane to a halt. Buildings and powerlines precluded a successful go-around. The airplane went off the end of the runway and struck a telephone pole.

Runway excursion

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Jun 1991 Cessna 172M accident near Keenesburg, CO?

After passengers became airsick, a pilot elected to land at his farm airstrip. A rushed approach resulted in excessive float, insufficient runway, and collision with a telephone pole.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Jun 1991 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N1241U, operated by Northern Colorado Aviation, at Keenesburg, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S MISJUDGING THE APPROACH, AND DISREGARD OF WIND CONDITIONS. FACTORS WERE: A TAILWIND CONDITION AND THE PILOT'S ANXIETY.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17245. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.