On June 10, 1984, a Cessna 172E (registration N5614T) was involved in an aviation accident near Waterloo, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on a less suitable runway during gusty crosswind conditions, which led to loss of control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot elected to land on runway 18 due to heavy traffic, but a wind gust lifted the right wing and caused the left wingtip to drag on the pavement.
What happened
The aircraft was operating in an environment characterized by significant congestion at the airport. The wind conditions were from 280 degrees at 16 knots, with gusts reaching up to 25 knots. Rather than waiting for the primary runway, which was designated as runway 24, the pilot elected to land on runway 18.
During the landing roll, a sudden gust of wind lifted the right wing of the aircraft. This aerodynamic shift caused the left wingtip to drag along the runway surface. The occurrence resulted in damage to the left wingtip and a bent propeller.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land on a less suitable runway during gusty crosswind conditions, which led to loss of control during the landing roll.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Jun 1984 Cessna 172E accident near Waterloo, IA?
A pilot elected to land on runway 18 due to heavy traffic, but a wind gust lifted the right wing and caused the left wingtip to drag on the pavement.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jun 1984 involved a Cessna 172E, registration N5614T, at Waterloo, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land on a less suitable runway during gusty crosswind conditions, which led to loss of control during the landing roll.
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