Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Runway Excursion on Grass Strip at Private Airport (N84460)

Lovingston, VA, US

On December 1, 1995, a Cessna 172K (registration N84460) was involved in an aviation accident near Lovingston, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper planning/decision during the approach/landing phase of flight. Related factors were: the pilot's selection of the wrong runway, and the gusty tailwind conditions. 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 landing on a 1,400-foot grass strip at a private airport reported touching down one third of the way down and being unable to stop, resulting in the airplane going off the end into brush and trees. No mechanical issues were found.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported a runway excursion while landing at a private airport. The pilot stated that he was landing on runway 3, a grass strip approximately 1,400 feet long. Wind conditions at the time were from 240 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Landing and Excursion

According to the pilot, the airplane touched down about one third of the way down the grass strip. He was unable to stop on the remaining runway. The airplane subsequently went off the departure end of the runway, down an embankment, and into brush and trees.

Post-Accident Examination

An FAA inspector examined the airplane after the accident and reported that there was no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction. No further details were provided regarding injuries, damage, or the aircraft's type or registration.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Dec 1995 Cessna 172K accident near Lovingston, VA?

A pilot landing on a 1,400-foot grass strip at a private airport reported touching down one third of the way down and being unable to stop, resulting in the airplane going off the end into brush and trees. No mechanical issues were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Dec 1995 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N84460, at Lovingston, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper planning/decision during the approach/landing phase of flight. Related factors were: the pilot's selection of the wrong runway, and the gusty tailwind conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04959. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.