4 Feb 2019: Cessna 172 R — HOVA Flight Services

4 Feb 2019: Cessna 172 R — HOVA Flight Services

No fatalities • Hanover, VA, United States

Probable cause

The student pilot's improper decision to release the seat latch to adjust the seat position during taxi, which resulted in his inability to reach the rudder or brake pedals and a subsequent loss of directional control and impact with a ditch and fence.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The solo student pilot reported that while taxiing to the runway for departure, he attempted to adjust the seat to get a "better view". When he released the seat latch, the seat moved aft, and he was unable to reach the rudder pedals or brake pedals with his feet. He added that he was unable to lean forward because his seat belt was secured. Subsequently, the airplane veered left, he pulled the engine throttle to idle, but the airplane exited the taxiway into a ditch and struck a wire fence.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and right horizontal stabilizer.

The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Incorrect use/operation
  • cause Student/instructed pilot
  • cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Student/instructed pilot
  • Contributed to outcome
  • Contributed to outcome
  • Effect on operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 010/03kt, vis 10sm

Related events

Same aircraft

  • 22 Apr 2026 — CESSNA 172N (ANDERSON AVIATION SERVICES INC)
  • 20 Apr 2026 — CESSNA 172S (VISTA AVIATION INC)
  • 19 Apr 2026 — CESSNA 172P (JEPPESEN EMPLOYEES FLYING ASSOCIATION)
  • 16 Apr 2026 — CESSNA 172 K (Top Aviation Services)
  • 13 Apr 2026 — CESSNA 172S (CHRISTIANSEN AVIATION LLC)

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