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Aircraft Departs Runway After Touchdown, Left Main Landing Gear Separates (N6830A)

W. Yellowstone, MT, US

On August 31, 2002, a Cessna 172 (registration N6830A) operated by Christian Locher was involved in an aviation accident near W. Yellowstone, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's compensation for the wind conditions was inadequate during the landing roll. A quartering tailwind was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported applying left rudder and braking to counteract weathervane effect after landing, but the airplane departed the runway centerline. The left main landing gear separated and the left wing contacted the ground.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that after the aircraft touched down on runway 19, he needed to apply left rudder input, followed by left braking action to counteract the weathervane effect. Despite the increased inputs, the airplane departed the runway centerline and traveled off the side of the runway. The left main landing gear separated at the gear leg attachment, and the left wing contacted the surface.

Shortly after the accident, winds were reported from 300 degrees at 8 knots.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident inspection of the gear leg, gear leg attach bolt, gear box, and brake indicated a side load. No anomalies were reported for the brake system.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 2002 Cessna 172 accident near W. Yellowstone, MT?

A pilot reported applying left rudder and braking to counteract weathervane effect after landing, but the airplane departed the runway centerline. The left main landing gear separated and the left wing contacted the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Aug 2002 Cessna 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 2002 involved a Cessna 172, registration N6830A, operated by Christian Locher, at W. Yellowstone, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's compensation for the wind conditions was inadequate during the landing roll. A quartering tailwind was a factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020910X01573. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.