On February 26, 2014, a CESSNA 172M M operated by WINGS INC was involved in an aviation accident near South Bend, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot involved and the phase of flight when the damage was incurred were not determined. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During an annual inspection on February 26, 2014, a mechanic discovered buckling, compression, and kinking of both firewall sections, along with damage to floor sections, belly skin, center pedestal, and stringers. The flying club could not determine when the damage occurred but noted possible association with nosewheel damage found on December 2, 2013.
Damage Discovered During Annual Inspection
On February 26, 2014, during an annual inspection of an airplane operated by a flying club, a mechanic observed significant structural damage. Both firewall sections exhibited buckling, compression, and kinking. Additionally, the front floor sections, front belly sections, front belly skin, center pedestal, and numerous stringers and angles were damaged.
Unknown Timeline of Damage
The flying club operating the airplane was unable to factually determine when the damage took place. It is possible that the damage was associated with nosewheel damage that had been discovered earlier on December 2, 2013. No further information regarding the cause or extent of the nosewheel damage was provided.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Feb 2014 CESSNA 172M M accident near South Bend, IN?
During an annual inspection on February 26, 2014, a mechanic discovered buckling, compression, and kinking of both firewall sections, along with damage to floor sections, belly skin, center pedestal, and stringers. The flying club could not determine when the damage occurred but noted possible association with…
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Feb 2014 CESSNA 172M M accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Feb 2014 involved a CESSNA 172M M, operated by WINGS INC, at South Bend, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot involved and the phase of flight when the damage was incurred were not determined.