No fatalities

Float-Equipped Airplane Noses Over on Lake After Pilot Distraction by Military Helicopters (N92737)

Rangeley, ME, US

On October 18, 2007, a Cessna 172M (registration N92737) operated by Larry Koob was involved in an aviation accident near Rangeley, ME. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inattention due to his attention being diverted by two military helicopters operating in close proximity to his intended landing area. 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 commercial pilot landing a float-equipped airplane on a lake was distracted by two military helicopters, leading to inattention. The airplane rolled left, struck the water with the left float, and nosed over, damaging both wings and the right aileron. The pilot reported no mechanical problems.

Accident Sequence

A commercial pilot was landing a float-equipped airplane on a lake. He reported that his attention was diverted by two military helicopters operating in close proximity to his intended landing area. During the momentary inattention, the airplane rolled to the left. The left float struck the surface of the water, and the airplane nosed over.

Aircraft Damage

During the accident sequence, both wings sustained damage. The right aileron was torn away from the aircraft.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane prior to the accident. The National Transportation Safety Board did not examine the aircraft.

Probable cause

The pilot's inattention due to his attention being diverted by two military helicopters operating in close proximity to his intended landing area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Oct 2007 Cessna 172M accident near Rangeley, ME?

A commercial pilot landing a float-equipped airplane on a lake was distracted by two military helicopters, leading to inattention. The airplane rolled left, struck the water with the left float, and nosed over, damaging both wings and the right aileron. The pilot reported no mechanical problems.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Oct 2007 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Oct 2007 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N92737, operated by Larry Koob, at Rangeley, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inattention due to his attention being diverted by two military helicopters operating in close proximity to his intended landing area.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20080116X00056. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.