Casualties unknown

Forced Landing in Field Results in Nose Gear Separation and Inversion (N6HV)

Stuart, FL, US

On March 26, 1994, a Cessna 172N (registration N6HV) operated by Florida Flyers Uk, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Stuart, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POOR IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS WIND INFORMATION DISREGARDED BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a forced landing due to partial engine power loss, the airplane's nose gear struck a rise amid a tailwind, causing the gear to separate and the aircraft to nose over.

Accident Overview

The pilot conducted a forced landing in a field after experiencing a partial loss of engine power. The landing was performed with a tailwind of approximately 14 knots. During the landing roll, the nose landing gear collided with a rise in the field. The gear subsequently separated, and the airplane nosed over, coming to rest inverted.

Pilot Actions and Landing Site

The pilot had previously landed in the same field because an acquaintance lived nearby. This prior familiarity may have influenced the selection of the landing site.

Post-Accident Engine Test

Following the accident, the engine was started and found to operate normally. No mechanical issues were identified during the post-accident run.

Damage and Findings

The accident resulted in the separation of the nose landing gear and the airplane coming to rest inverted. The exact extent of damage to other components is not specified in the source material.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Mar 1994 Cessna 172N accident near Stuart, FL?

During a forced landing due to partial engine power loss, the airplane's nose gear struck a rise amid a tailwind, causing the gear to separate and the aircraft to nose over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Mar 1994 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N6HV, operated by Florida Flyers Uk, Inc., at Stuart, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

POOR IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS WIND INFORMATION DISREGARDED BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00961. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.