No fatalities

Tailwind and Excess Speed Contribute to Runway Overrun and Tree Strike (N8198L)

Huntsville, AL, US

On June 27, 1992, a Cessna 172H (registration N8198L) operated by Stottle, Robert D. was involved in an aviation accident near Huntsville, AL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot did not take into account a tailwind of about 10 knots and flew the final approach about 5 knots faster than normal, resulting in inability to stop within the remaining runway. 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 private pilot landed on a short grass airstrip with a tailwind and faster approach, then overran the runway and struck trees, causing structural damage.

Accident Overview

A private pilot was returning to his private grass airstrip, which is 1,200 feet in length, after a flight. During the landing, the pilot did not account for a tailwind of approximately 10 knots and flew the final approach about 5 knots faster than his normal speed.

Events at Landing

After touchdown, the aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining runway. It subsequently collided with perimeter trees, resulting in structural damage to the airframe.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that no mechanical problems with the aircraft occurred during the accident flight.

Probable cause

The pilot did not take into account a tailwind of about 10 knots and flew the final approach about 5 knots faster than normal, resulting in inability to stop within the remaining runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jun 1992 Cessna 172H accident near Huntsville, AL?

A private pilot landed on a short grass airstrip with a tailwind and faster approach, then overran the runway and struck trees, causing structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Jun 1992 Cessna 172H accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jun 1992 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N8198L, operated by Stottle, Robert D., at Huntsville, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot did not take into account a tailwind of about 10 knots and flew the final approach about 5 knots faster than normal, resulting in inability to stop within the remaining runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14783. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.