Casualties unknown

Pilot loses control during go-around in gusty crosswind conditions (N4KE)

Monticello, IA, US

On October 15, 1985, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N4KE) was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in an inadvertent encounter with a power line. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted a landing in strong crosswinds but was unable to correct for them. During the subsequent go-around, gusty winds rolled the aircraft to the right, causing it to strike a power line.

What happened

The pilot reported that he was aware of strong crosswind conditions prior to attempting a landing. However, when the moment arrived to execute the landing, he found himself unable to adequately correct for the wind effects. Consequently, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure.

During the climb-out phase, the aircraft encountered gusty winds that caused it to roll to the right. As the airplane failed to gain sufficient altitude, it struck a power line with either its right wingtip or the landing gear wheels.

The investigation

The investigation relied primarily on the pilot's statement regarding the weather conditions and the sequence of events leading to the impact. No mechanical failure was identified as a contributing factor; the loss of control was attributed to the environmental conditions during the critical go-around maneuver.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in an inadvertent encounter with a power line.

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 1985 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Monticello, IA?

A pilot attempted a landing in strong crosswinds but was unable to correct for them. During the subsequent go-around, gusty winds rolled the aircraft to the right, causing it to strike a power line.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 1985 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N4KE, at Monticello, IA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in an inadvertent encounter with a power line.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38111. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.