Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands in Field After Terrain Encounter During Thunderstorm Avoidance (CGLIL)

Pagosa Springs, CO, US

On July 30, 1993, a Cessna 182Q (registration CGLIL) operated by Centennial Flight Centre, Ltd. was involved in an aviation accident near Pagosa Springs, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE DECISION BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO FLY AT AN ALTITUDE INSUFFICIENT FOR THE SURROUNDING TERRAIN. FACTORS WERE: THE PILOT'S ATTENTION BEING MOMENTARILY DIVERTED AND THE AIRPLANE'S CLIMB PERFORMANCE BEING EXCEEDED. 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 pilot, after deviating to avoid a thunderstorm, found rising terrain exceeding the airplane's climb capability and executed a forced landing in an open field, during which the airplane struck trees, bounced, hit a rock shearing the nosewheel, and nosed over.

Flight and Thunderstorm Avoidance

The pilot was navigating the airplane when she decided to adjust the course slightly to the south to avoid a thunderstorm. She then began to follow a road, using it as a reference. However, the road soon faded from sight, and her attention was briefly diverted outside the airplane. At that point, she recognized that the mountainous terrain ahead was ascending more rapidly than the airplane's climb capability.

Forced Landing Decision

Confronted with the rising terrain, the pilot assessed her options. She determined that attempting to turn around was not advisable, and instead opted to continue forward and set the airplane down in an open field that was visible ahead.

Landing and Impact Sequence

During the final approach to the field, the airplane's landing gear brushed against the tops of several trees. The airplane then touched down on the field, bounced once, and slid for about 25 feet. During the slide, the airplane struck a rock. The rock sheared the nosewheel, and the airplane nosed over.

Outcome

The incident resulted in the airplane coming to rest in a nose-over position. No further information was provided regarding injuries or damage extent.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jul 1993 Cessna 182Q accident near Pagosa Springs, CO?

A pilot, after deviating to avoid a thunderstorm, found rising terrain exceeding the airplane's climb capability and executed a forced landing in an open field, during which the airplane struck trees, bounced, hit a rock shearing the nosewheel, and nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jul 1993 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration CGLIL, operated by Centennial Flight Centre, Ltd., at Pagosa Springs, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE DECISION BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO FLY AT AN ALTITUDE INSUFFICIENT FOR THE SURROUNDING TERRAIN. FACTORS WERE: THE PILOT'S ATTENTION BEING MOMENTARILY DIVERTED AND THE AIRPLANE'S CLIMB PERFORMANCE BEING EXCEEDED.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12906. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.