This March 2008 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 172. Injuries: None. Location: Apple River, Ill. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot was attempting to land on runway 35. There was a 90° crosswind. When the airplane touched down, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the left. Before the pilot could react, the left main gear hit a snowbank and the airplane nosed over.
Probable cause: The pilot’s inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and his failure to obtain/maintain directional control. The crosswind and snowbank were factors.
For more information: NTSB.gov
