Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Loses Control During Crosswind Touch-and-Go Landing (N12551)

Oakdale, CA, US

On January 19, 1987, a Cessna 172M (registration N12551) operated by Diamond K. Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Oakdale, CA. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a solo instructional flight, a student pilot practicing touch-and-go landings lost control on the second landing when a crosswind increased to 18 knots, veering off the runway into weeds, then briefly becoming airborne before colliding with terrain.

Background

A student pilot, flying solo on an instructional flight, was practicing touch-and-go landings. The initial takeoff was conducted on Runway 28 with light wind conditions reported from 100 degrees.

First Landing

On the first landing, the wind had shifted to a right crosswind from the north. The pilot compensated for the crosswind and completed the landing without incident.

Second Landing

During the second landing attempt, the crosswind increased to approximately 18 knots. While touching down, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft veered to the left, departed the runway, and entered the adjacent weeds.

Post-Event Actions

In an effort to recover, the pilot added engine power and retracted the flaps. The aircraft became airborne, reaching an altitude of approximately 30 feet. Subsequently, the aircraft lost altitude and collided with the terrain.

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other specifics were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jan 1987 Cessna 172M accident near Oakdale, CA?

During a solo instructional flight, a student pilot practicing touch-and-go landings lost control on the second landing when a crosswind increased to 18 knots, veering off the runway into weeds, then briefly becoming airborne before colliding with terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jan 1987 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N12551, operated by Diamond K. Aviation, at Oakdale, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30107. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.