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Casualties unknown

Cessna 172P Collides with Water During Go-Around (N52452)

Cedar Key, FL, US

On July 7, 2001, a Cessna 172P (registration N52452) was involved in an aviation accident near Cedar Key, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper in-flight decision to abort the landing resulted in the collision with water. A factor was the variable wind condition. 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 Cessna 172P collided with water 125 feet from the end of Runway 23 after encountering a tailwind on final approach and initiating a go-around. No mechanical issues were reported.

Accident Details

During final approach, the pilot of a Cessna 172P encountered a tailwind, causing an overshoot of the runway. The pilot attempted a go-around, but the airplane collided with water approximately 125 feet from the end of Runway 23.

Aircraft Performance and Runway Information

The pilot reported variable wind speed and direction conditions during the attempted landing. According to Cessna 172P performance data, the approximate landing roll at a gross weight of 2,400 pounds is 540 feet. Runway 23 is 2,355 feet long. The pilot initiated the go-around approximately 1,000 feet from the end of the runway.

Pilot Report

No mechanical problems with the airplane were reported by the pilot.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jul 2001 Cessna 172P accident near Cedar Key, FL?

A Cessna 172P collided with water 125 feet from the end of Runway 23 after encountering a tailwind on final approach and initiating a go-around. No mechanical issues were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jul 2001 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N52452, at Cedar Key, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper in-flight decision to abort the landing resulted in the collision with water. A factor was the variable wind condition.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010712X01393. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.