Casualties unknown

Loss of Control on Final Approach at Evanston Due to Crosswind (N5136X)

Evanston, WY, US

On May 31, 1983, a Cessna TU206 (registration N5136X) was involved in an aviation accident near Evanston, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway and colliding with a ditch. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost directional control during a landing at Evanston after executing a go-around in gusty winds, resulting in a collision with a ditch.

What happened

The aircraft departed Evanston and encountered adverse weather approximately 100 miles to the east. The pilot decided to return to the airport and initiated an approach to Runway 34. Due to unfavorable wind conditions, the pilot executed a go-around before subsequently landing on Runway 16. During the landing roll, directional control was lost, and the aircraft collided with a ditch.

Findings

The weather conditions at the time of the incident included winds gusting up to 37 knots. The pilot had deployed full flaps prior to the landing attempt. The loss of directional control occurred during the ground roll on Runway 16, leading directly to the collision with the ditch.

Safety message

Landing in strong crosswind conditions requires careful management of aircraft control surfaces and adequate runway length. Pilots must be prepared for reduced directional stability when gusty winds are present.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway and colliding with a ditch.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 May 1983 Cessna TU206 accident near Evanston, WY?

A pilot lost directional control during a landing at Evanston after executing a go-around in gusty winds, resulting in a collision with a ditch.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 May 1983 involved a Cessna TU206, registration N5136X, at Evanston, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway and colliding with a ditch.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42960. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.