On April 17, 1988, a Cessna 182Q (registration N759BJ) operated by Kevin L. Pullin was involved in an aviation accident near Lowell, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing, resulting in the aircraft flipping over after exiting a tree line shelter. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Cessna 182Q was flipped over after exiting a tree line during the landing rollout in strong crosswinds, exposing the aircraft to gusts beyond its demonstrated limits.
What happened
The pilot reported conducting a landing with a 90-degree crosswind component of 12 to 14 knots. During the initial phase of the landing rollout, the aircraft remained shielded from the direct effect of the wind by a row of trees bordering the upwind side of the runway. Upon reaching a clearing in this tree line, the airplane was suddenly exposed to the full force of the crosswind and subsequently flipped over.
The investigation
Review of the Cessna 182Q Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) indicates that the maximum demonstrated crosswind velocity for landing is 15 knots. The reported wind conditions fell within this demonstrated range, though the sudden exposure to the full crosswind component after passing the tree line likely contributed to the loss of control.
Findings
The accident was caused by the aircraft being exposed to a crosswind beyond the pilot's ability to maintain directional control after exiting the sheltered area. The Cessna 182Q was unable to withstand the lateral forces generated by the sudden wind exposure during the critical landing rollout phase.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing, resulting in the aircraft flipping over after exiting a tree line shelter.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Apr 1988 Cessna 182Q accident near Lowell, OH?
A Cessna 182Q was flipped over after exiting a tree line during the landing rollout in strong crosswinds, exposing the aircraft to gusts beyond its demonstrated limits.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Apr 1988 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N759BJ, operated by Kevin L. Pullin, at Lowell, OH.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing, resulting in the aircraft flipping over after exiting a tree line shelter.
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