Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Hard Landing and Runway Excursion Following Gusty Conditions (N5280D)

Key West, FL, US

On April 17, 2004, a Cessna 172S (registration N5280D) operated by Airborne Systems, Inc., was involved in an aviation accident near Key West, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in gusty wind conditions which resulted in the airplane departing the runway and impacting a sign, incurring damage. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach, indicated airspeed fluctuated between 75 and 80 knots. Strong gusts caused a hard landing, then a bounce and veer left, resulting in the right main landing gear striking a distance sign.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during the final approach to landing, the indicated airspeed fluctuated between 75 and 80 knots. After crossing the touchdown area, the aircraft encountered strong gusts, leading to a hard landing. The airplane bounced back into the air, but the nose remained aligned with the runway centerline. The pilot reduced power and allowed the airplane to glide to a further touchdown.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane touched down again, it veered to the left. During the excursion, the right main landing gear struck one of the fixed distance signs located alongside the runway. The pilot stated that prior to the accident, there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane or any of its systems.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040510X00580. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.