Incident Overview
A student pilot conducted a flight to Broomfield, Iowa, after receiving a weather briefing at 1000 CST. The briefing included the latest observation from Ottumua, Iowa—the closest weather station to Broomfield—which reported winds from 110 degrees at 11 knots. Approximately 25 minutes later, the forecast was amended to expect winds from 090 degrees at 15 knots.
Approach and Landing
Upon arrival at Broomfield, the pilot executed a go-around following a strong crosswind on the first approach. The second approach resulted in a landing, but the aircraft drifted off the left side of the runway and struck a ditch.
Weather and Airport Conditions
At the time of the accident, the UNICOM was not operational, but an operational wind sock was present. An agricultural operator located at the airport estimated the wind was from the east at 20 to 30 knots. According to FAA records, the student pilot did not contact the Flight Service Station (FSS) at Ottumua to obtain updated wind information.