On September 22, 1997, a Cessna 172G (registration N4375L) was involved in an aviation accident near Chicago, IL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's selection of the wrong taxi route (service road) and not maintaining clearance between his airplane's wing and a bus. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft registered N4375L. Photo: Unknown author Unknown author / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
After landing, a pilot mistakenly turned onto a service road where an airline crew bus was present, resulting in the airplane's left wingtip striking the bus's left rear side window.
Incident Overview
Following a landing, the pilot received instructions to turn onto a specific taxiway. However, the pilot turned onto a service road that was being used by an airline crew bus. Shortly after initiating the turn, the airplane's left wingtip collided with the left rear side window of the bus.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the bus had turned to its right as the airplane approached it.
Damage Assessment
An on-scene investigation revealed structural damage to the aircraft. The left wing sustained a bent and cracked rear wing spar, as well as buckled upper wing skin aft of the left wing fuel tank.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Sept 1997 Cessna 172G accident near Chicago, IL?
After landing, a pilot mistakenly turned onto a service road where an airline crew bus was present, resulting in the airplane's left wingtip striking the bus's left rear side window.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Sept 1997 Cessna 172G accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Sept 1997 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N4375L, at Chicago, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's selection of the wrong taxi route (service road) and not maintaining clearance between his airplane's wing and a bus.
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