On October 14, 1983, a Piper PA-38 (registration N2395L) was involved in an aviation accident near Crystal City, TX. 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 paved surface and striking vegetation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a landing on a private ranch strip, the aircraft encountered sudden wind gusts that caused it to drift off the paved surface. The wing and gear struck tall sunflowers, leading to a nose gear collapse and a subsequent nose-over incident.
What happened
The aircraft was conducting a landing operation on a private airstrip located at a ranch facility. During the final approach and touchdown phase, the pilot encountered sudden gusts of wind. These gusts caused the aircraft to drift laterally off the paved surface of the runway.
As the aircraft moved beyond the edge of the pavement, the left wing and landing gear collided with tall sunflowers growing immediately adjacent to the strip. The impact with the vegetation caused the nose landing gear to collapse. Consequently, the aircraft nosed over onto its nose.
According to the pilot's account, the wind conditions at the time were from 100 degrees at 15 knots, with gusts reaching 20 knots.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the paved surface and striking vegetation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Oct 1983 Piper PA-38 accident near Crystal City, TX?
During a landing on a private ranch strip, the aircraft encountered sudden wind gusts that caused it to drift off the paved surface. The wing and gear struck tall sunflowers, leading to a nose gear collapse and a subsequent nose-over incident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Oct 1983 involved a Piper PA-38, registration N2395L, at Crystal City, TX.
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 paved surface and striking vegetation.
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