Casualties unknown

Student Pilot's Solo Cross-Country Flight Ends in Water After Tailwind and Go-Around Attempt (N54102)

Andover, NJ, US

On December 22, 1992, a Cessna 172 (registration N54102) operated by Lincoln Park Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Andover, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ABORT THE LANDING WHICH RESULTED IN A OVERRUN OF THE RUNWAY. CONTRIBUTING WAS THE PILOT'S MISJUDGEMENT OF DISTANCE AND AN IMPROPER TOUCHDOWN POINT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 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

During a solo cross-country flight, a student pilot encountered a gusting tailwind on landing, causing the aircraft to float. After touching down with limited runway remaining, a go-around attempt was too late, and the aircraft struck water.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting a solo cross-country flight. The approach and landing were attempted on runway 03. According to the pilot's account, just before touchdown, a gusting tailwind caused the aircraft to float above the runway. The pilot was able to touch down with approximately two-thirds of the runway already used.

Sequence of Events

After touchdown, the pilot realized that only about 30 feet of runway remained. In an effort to avoid overrunning the runway, he powered up to initiate a go-around. However, the attempt was too late, and the aircraft struck the water beyond the runway end.

Circumstances

The flight was solo, and no passengers were on board. The pilot was a student performing a cross-country navigation exercise. The exact aircraft type, registration, date, time, and location are not specified in the source. No information regarding injuries or damage severity is provided.

Investigation Status

The source does not provide an official probable cause or any conclusions. The incident is described solely from the pilot's statement.

All Cessna 172 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Dec 1992 Cessna 172 accident near Andover, NJ?

During a solo cross-country flight, a student pilot encountered a gusting tailwind on landing, causing the aircraft to float. After touching down with limited runway remaining, a go-around attempt was too late, and the aircraft struck water.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Dec 1992 involved a Cessna 172, registration N54102, operated by Lincoln Park Aviation, at Andover, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ABORT THE LANDING WHICH RESULTED IN A OVERRUN OF THE RUNWAY. CONTRIBUTING WAS THE PILOT'S MISJUDGEMENT OF DISTANCE AND AN IMPROPER TOUCHDOWN POINT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16232. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.