No fatalities

Nose-Over Accident on Turf Runway Involving Float-Equipped Airplane

Oconomowoc, WI, United States

On September 29, 2010, a CESSNA 172B was involved in an aviation accident near Oconomowoc, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing the float-equipped airplane on a turf runway. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot who purchased a float-equipped airplane on the day of the accident nosed over during landing on a turf runway after a float dug into the terrain. No mechanical problems were reported, and the vertical stabilizer and rudder were bent.

Accident Overview and Purchase Details The pilot acquired the float-equipped airplane on the same day the accident occurred. The aircraft was operating on a turf runway when the incident took place. ## Sequence of Events During the landing phase, one of the airplane's floats dug into the terrain. This action caused the airplane to nose over. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident. ## Post-Accident Examination An examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the vertical stabilizer and rudder were bent. No other specific damage or mechanical issues were detailed in the source.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationPilot

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Sept 2010 CESSNA 172B accident near Oconomowoc, WI?

A pilot who purchased a float-equipped airplane on the day of the accident nosed over during landing on a turf runway after a float dug into the terrain. No mechanical problems were reported, and the vertical stabilizer and rudder were bent.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Sept 2010 CESSNA 172B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Sept 2010 involved a CESSNA 172B, at Oconomowoc, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing the float-equipped airplane on a turf runway.