Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Loses Control During Touch-and-Go in Crosswinds (N3163Z)

Las Vegas, NM, US

On August 26, 1990, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N3163Z) operated by Ziogas, Marios T. was involved in an aviation accident near Las Vegas, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control during a touch-and-go landing in strong and gusty crosswinds. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot lost control during a touch-and-go landing in strong gusty crosswinds, causing the aircraft to depart the runway and come to rest inverted with significant damage.

What happened

The private pilot was conducting a touch-and-go landing when the aircraft encountered strong and gusty crosswind conditions. During the landing roll, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. The plane departed the runway to the left side, causing the nose gear to fold. Subsequently, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest beside the runway in an inverted position.

The investigation

Examination of the wreckage revealed significant structural damage consistent with the described sequence of events. The left wing, left strut, and vertical stabilizer were damaged during the incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of control during a touch-and-go landing in strong and gusty crosswinds.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23985. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.