No fatalities

Smooth Landing Ends in Runway Excursion and Nosegear Collapse (N1530M)

Mobile, AL, US

On May 4, 1997, a Cessna 182P (registration N1530M) operated by Edward R. March Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Mobile, AL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout, which resulted in a collision with a runway light. 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

After an ILS approach and smooth landing, the airplane weathervaned right, causing loss of directional control and runway excursion. It struck a runway light, collapsing the nosegear. No mechanical failures were found.

Landing

During an ILS approach, the pilot executed a smooth landing. Shortly after touchdown, the airplane began to weather vane to the right.

Loss of Directional Control

The pilot lost directional control, and the airplane departed the runway to the right side.

Runway Excursion and Damage

After leaving the runway surface, the airplane collided with a runway light. The impact caused the nose landing gear to collapse.

Pilot's Account

The pilot initially stated he could not recall applying any aileron or rudder input before the excursion. He later recanted this statement in the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report.

Mechanical Examination

An examination of the brakes, airframe, and flight control systems revealed no evidence of a precrash mechanical failure or malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 May 1997 Cessna 182P accident near Mobile, AL?

After an ILS approach and smooth landing, the airplane weathervaned right, causing loss of directional control and runway excursion. It struck a runway light, collapsing the nosegear. No mechanical failures were found.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 May 1997 Cessna 182P accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 May 1997 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N1530M, operated by Edward R. March Jr., at Mobile, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout, which resulted in a collision with a runway light.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07974. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.