No fatalities

Aircraft Overruns Runway After Thunderstorm Encounter (N62538)

Wheeling, IL, US

On June 14, 1992, a Cessna 172 (registration N62538) operated by 538 Limited was involved in an aviation accident near Wheeling, IL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER APPROACH TO LANDING. RELATED FACTORS ARE THE THUNDERSTORM AND THE EXCESSIVE AIRSPEED. 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.

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

A pilot reported encountering a level three thunderstorm and moderate turbulence while tracking the localizer course. After reducing power and adding full flaps, the aircraft ran off the departure end of runway 16 and swerved left before stopping.

Incident Details

According to the pilot's report, a level three thunderstorm was present just west of the destination airport during the approach. The aircraft experienced moderate turbulence while tracking the localizer course for the runway. The pilot stated that he increased his approach speed due to the weather conditions.

As the aircraft reached the approach end of runway 16, the pilot reduced power to idle and added full flaps. Just before touching down, the pilot realized there might not be enough runway for the aircraft to come to a full stop. The aircraft subsequently ran off the departure end of the runway, swerved left, and came to a stop.

Pilot Report

The pilot described the sequence of events, noting the thunderstorm's location and the decision to increase approach speed. The report does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, operator, date, location, occupants, injuries, or damage. No further details regarding weather characterization, time of day, or air traffic control involvement were provided in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jun 1992 Cessna 172 accident near Wheeling, IL?

A pilot reported encountering a level three thunderstorm and moderate turbulence while tracking the localizer course. After reducing power and adding full flaps, the aircraft ran off the departure end of runway 16 and swerved left before stopping.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Jun 1992 Cessna 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jun 1992 involved a Cessna 172, registration N62538, operated by 538 Limited, at Wheeling, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER APPROACH TO LANDING. RELATED FACTORS ARE THE THUNDERSTORM AND THE EXCESSIVE AIRSPEED.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14811. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.