Casualties unknown

Airplane Noses Over During Landing in Cornfield (N4072C)

Johnson Creek, WI, US

On August 15, 1999, a Stinson 108-3 (registration N4072C) was involved in an aviation accident near Johnson Creek, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. 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

During a three-point landing between rows of tall corn, the left wing contacted the corn. The pilot applied right rudder but the airplane veered into the field, nosed over, and came to rest inverted. No pre-accident anomalies were found.

Accident Details

According to the pilot's account, the landing was performed as a three-point touchdown between rows of corn approximately 10 feet high. During the landing rollout, the pilot noticed the left wing coming into contact with the corn. In response, the pilot applied right rudder, but the airplane continued to track within the rows of corn. Subsequently, the airplane veered into the cornfield, nosed over, and came to rest in an inverted position.

Wreckage Examination

An examination of the wreckage did not reveal any pre-accident anomalies with the airplane or its control systems.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Aug 1999 Stinson 108-3 accident near Johnson Creek, WI?

During a three-point landing between rows of tall corn, the left wing contacted the corn. The pilot applied right rudder but the airplane veered into the field, nosed over, and came to rest inverted. No pre-accident anomalies were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Aug 1999 involved a Stinson 108-3, registration N4072C, at Johnson Creek, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19445. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.