Failure to manage crosswind leads to accident

By NTSB · April 30, 2009 ·

This May 2007 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.

Aircraft: Cessna 150.
Location: Sonoma, Calif.
Injuries: 1 Minor.
Aircraft damage: Substantial.

What reportedly happened: The pilot landed on runway 26 when the winds were from 360° at 19 knots and gusting to 28 knots. The crosswind pushed the airplane to the left at touchdown. The pilot was not able to maintain directional control and the Cessna went off the runway and into ditch.

Probable cause: The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions and failure to maintain directional control while landing.

About NTSB

The National Transportation Safety Board is an independent federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant events in the other modes of transportation, including railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space. It determines the probable causes of accidents and issues safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences.

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