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Precautionary Landing Followed by Takeoff Accident Ends in Postcrash Fire (N4951D)

Hayfield Twnshp, PA, US

On July 8, 1997, a Cessna 182A (registration N4951D) was involved in an aviation accident near Hayfield Twnshp, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to attempt a takeoff from unsuitable terrain and failure to maintain airspeed. A factor in this accident was the gusty wind 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 performed a precautionary landing in a corn field due to strong winds, heavy rain, and low fuel. After refueling, a takeoff attempt resulted in a ground loop and postcrash fire.

Precautionary Landing

The pilot reported that he made a precautionary landing in a corn field due to strong winds, heavy rain, and low fuel. After landing, he refueled the airplane and decided to continue to his destination.

Takeoff Attempt

Initially, the pilot performed a partial takeoff, which was aborted, to assess the field conditions. He then elected to take off from the wet field, which was sloped uphill and contained corn plants approximately 12 inches high.

Accident Sequence

During the takeoff, the pilot stated that the airspeed was low and that he overcorrected for gusty winds. The airplane's wing tip contacted the ground, causing the airplane to ground loop. A postcrash fire ensued. Winds reported at a nearby airport were from 230 degrees at 15 knots gusting to 23 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 1997 Cessna 182A accident near Hayfield Twnshp, PA?

A pilot performed a precautionary landing in a corn field due to strong winds, heavy rain, and low fuel. After refueling, a takeoff attempt resulted in a ground loop and postcrash fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 1997 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N4951D, at Hayfield Twnshp, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper decision to attempt a takeoff from unsuitable terrain and failure to maintain airspeed. A factor in this accident was the gusty wind conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08486. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.