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Snow Bank Impact During Runway 01 Approach Damages Left Wing (N5272R)

Slatington, PA, US

On February 22, 1994, a Cessna 172M (registration N5272R) operated by Richmond Pilots Association was involved in an aviation accident near Slatington, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ALIGNMENT WITH THE RUNWAY. THE CROSSWIND WAS A FACTOR. 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

During approach to a 30-foot-wide runway, an airplane drifted right, causing its right wheel to hit a snow bank. The left wing struck the ground and sustained substantial damage.

Event Overview

During the approach to Runway 01, a 30-foot-wide runway, the airplane began to drift to the right. According to the pilot, before corrective action could be taken, the airplane's right wheel impacted a snow bank located on the right side of the runway. The snow bank was described as 3 to 4 feet high. Both sides of the runway were lined with snow banks at the time.

Damage Description

Following the wheel impact with the snow bank, the airplane's left wing contacted the ground. The left wing sustained substantial damage as a result of the impact.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no airframe or engine mechanical malfunctions prior to the accident. The winds at the time of the accident were from the west at 5 to 8 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Feb 1994 Cessna 172M accident near Slatington, PA?

During approach to a 30-foot-wide runway, an airplane drifted right, causing its right wheel to hit a snow bank. The left wing struck the ground and sustained substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 22 Feb 1994 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Feb 1994 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N5272R, operated by Richmond Pilots Association, at Slatington, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ALIGNMENT WITH THE RUNWAY. THE CROSSWIND WAS A FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00713. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.