Casualties unknown

Student pilot loses control during solo practice landings in crosswind (N97055)

Lincoln Park, NJ, US

On June 6, 1993, a Cessna 172P (registration N97055) operated by Glenn Air Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Lincoln Park, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to a gust of wind from the right. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot practicing takeoffs and landings veered off the runway after a gust of wind caused a loss of directional control, leading to an impact with trees.

What happened

The student pilot was conducting a solo flight dedicated to practicing takeoff and landing procedures. The operations were taking place under weather conditions featuring a left crosswind component ranging from 5 to 8 knots. During the final approach of the sequence, the aircraft touched down on the runway. Immediately upon touchdown, a sudden gust of wind originating from the right side caused the airplane to veer sharply to the left, resulting in the aircraft leaving the paved surface at an approximate 45-degree angle.

Once off the runway, the pilot attempted to navigate around parked aircraft and an automobile located on the airfield. Despite efforts to apply brakes to bring the aircraft to a halt, the grass surface provided insufficient traction for stopping. The airplane continued its path until it impacted a tree line.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to a gust of wind from the right.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Jun 1993 Cessna 172P accident near Lincoln Park, NJ?

A student pilot practicing takeoffs and landings veered off the runway after a gust of wind caused a loss of directional control, leading to an impact with trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Jun 1993 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N97055, operated by Glenn Air Inc., at Lincoln Park, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to a gust of wind from the right.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12688. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.