Casualties unknown

1982-03-05: Cessna P337H (N5KH) — Victor Thompson — Mesa, AZ

Mesa, AZ, US

On March 5, 1982, a Cessna P337H (registration N5KH) operated by Victor Thompson was involved in an aviation accident near Mesa, AZ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

After landing with a gusty crosswind, a severe gust lifted the right wing, causing the aircraft to veer toward a taxiing Cessna 182. The pilot initiated a go-around but later lost airspeed, settling on its tail and colliding with three tied-down aircraft.

Incident Overview

A pilot returning from a local flight experienced a gusty crosswind from the right during landing. After touching down, while on the landing roll at approximately 55 knots (20 knots below landing speed), a severe gust lifted the right wing. The aircraft abruptly yawed about 45 degrees to the left, heading toward a Cessna 182 that was taxiing on a parallel taxiway.

Evasive Action and Subsequent Events

The pilot applied full power, lifted off, and cleared the Cessna 182. He then lowered the nose to gain airspeed, but the aircraft was heading toward a hangar. Unable to maintain flying speed, the airplane settled onto its tail in a grassy area. After touching down, it continued into a tie-down area and struck three other aircraft.

Aircraft Involved

The three struck aircraft were identified as a Cessna 172 (registration N62610), a Cessna 172RG (registration N5148U), and a Cessna 150 (registration N46972). The taxiing Cessna 182 was not struck. No further details about the accident aircraft or occupants are specified in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02185. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.