No fatalities

Student pilot spins aircraft while attempting rapid runway exit (N1895B)

Boise, ID, US

On November 4, 1997, a Luscombe 8F (registration N1895B) was involved in an aviation accident near Boise, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to turn off the runway at excessive speed, which resulted in loss of control and damage to the right wing. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A solo student pilot lost control after landing at excessive speed while trying to clear the runway quickly for an airliner waiting behind her.

What happened

The pilot, a solo student, was conducting a local flight when she initiated the approach to land. As she neared the runway threshold, she observed a large airliner holding short of the active runway, waiting for her to clear the path before it could proceed. Recognizing the need to vacate quickly to avoid delaying the commercial traffic, she decided to expedite the exit process.

Upon touchdown, the pilot maintained excessive ground speed rather than slowing down immediately. She attempted to execute a sharp turn off the runway at this high velocity. The maneuver exceeded the aircraft's handling limits at that weight and speed configuration. The right wing of the airplane contacted the pavement, causing significant structural damage and loss of directional control.

The aircraft spun approximately 270 degrees before coming to a final stop on an adjacent taxiway. There were no reports of injuries to the pilot or any other individuals involved in the incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to turn off the runway at excessive speed, which resulted in loss of control and damage to the right wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Nov 1997 Luscombe 8F accident near Boise, ID?

A solo student pilot lost control after landing at excessive speed while trying to clear the runway quickly for an airliner waiting behind her.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Nov 1997 Luscombe 8F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Nov 1997 involved a Luscombe 8F, registration N1895B, at Boise, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper decision to turn off the runway at excessive speed, which resulted in loss of control and damage to the right wing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09242. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.