Casualties unknown

Crosswind Landing on Grass Runway Ends in Tree Impact (N68135)

Sandwich, IL, US

On May 8, 1994, a Boeing B75-N1 (registration N68135) operated by Edward S. Midgley was involved in an aviation accident near Sandwich, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot in command's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing and attempted go around. 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
Aircraft registered N68135
Aircraft registered N68135. Photo: André Gerwing / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

During a landing on a grass runway with a 70-degree crosswind gusting to 18 knots, the pilot attempted a go-around after the right wing lifted, but the left wingtip dragged the ground. Unable to clear trees, the pilot reduced power and impacted them.

Incident Details

A pilot-in-command was landing on a grass runway when a crosswind of 12 knots, gusting to 18 knots from a 70-degree angle, affected the aircraft. After touchdown, the right wing began to lift, prompting the pilot to initiate a go-around. During this maneuver, the left wingtip contacted the ground, and the airplane became airborne as it departed the left side of the runway.

Sequence of Events

Unable to clear trees ahead, the pilot intentionally reduced power, landed, and subsequently impacted the trees. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or damage were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 May 1994 Boeing B75-N1 accident near Sandwich, IL?

During a landing on a grass runway with a 70-degree crosswind gusting to 18 knots, the pilot attempted a go-around after the right wing lifted, but the left wingtip dragged the ground. Unable to clear trees, the pilot reduced power and impacted them.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 May 1994 involved a Boeing B75-N1, registration N68135, operated by Edward S. Midgley, at Sandwich, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot in command's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing and attempted go around.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01232. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.