Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Variable Wind Gusts During Landing Rollout, Airplane Veers Off Runway (N79210)

Honesdale, PA, US

On April 22, 2001, a Cessna 172K (registration N79210) was involved in an aviation accident near Honesdale, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll. A factor was gusting winds. 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 the second landing on Runway 35, the pilot encountered variable cross/tail wind gusts, causing the airplane to veer off the runway onto a water-saturated turf area, where the propeller and right wing struck the ground.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, he entered the landing pattern for multiple landings on Runway 35. During the second landing, while on the landing rollout, he experienced what he described as "variable cross/tail wind gusts." The airplane subsequently veered off the runway and onto an adjacent turf runway that was water-saturated.

Sequence of Events

The airplane's wheels furrowed into the soft turf, and the propeller and right wing struck the ground. The pilot did not report any other abnormalities prior to the veer-off.

Weather Conditions

The airport where the accident occurred had no weather reporting facilities. The nearest airport with such facilities was located approximately 25 nautical miles to the southwest, separated by mountainous terrain. Weather recorded at that airport about 25 minutes after the accident indicated clear skies and winds from 230 degrees at 6 knots.

Post-Accident Information

No additional details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or injuries were provided in the source. The pilot's statement is the sole account of the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Apr 2001 Cessna 172K accident near Honesdale, PA?

During the second landing on Runway 35, the pilot encountered variable cross/tail wind gusts, causing the airplane to veer off the runway onto a water-saturated turf area, where the propeller and right wing struck the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Apr 2001 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N79210, at Honesdale, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll. A factor was gusting winds.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010502X00848. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.