Casualties unknown

Crosswind Encounter During Landing Results in Nose Strut Collapse (N4373U)

Moneta, VA, US

On February 20, 1992, a Cessna 150D (registration N4373U) operated by Parker Charter Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Moneta, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING LANDING WITH A CROSSWIND. 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 pilot landing on Runway 5 encountered an unexpected left crosswind just before touchdown, pushing the airplane 60-70 feet. The aircraft impacted the ground, causing the nose strut to collapse.

Event Summary

A pilot conducting a landing approach experienced an unanticipated crosswind condition shortly before touchdown. The pilot had been unable to obtain an airport advisory from UNICOM and instead observed the wind sock, which appeared to indicate calm conditions with no wind or gusts. The most recent wind information available to the pilot suggested winds from the northwest. Based on this information, the pilot elected to land on Runway 5.

Pilot's Account

According to the pilot, just prior to touchdown, the aircraft encountered a left crosswind. The pilot stated that the wind displaced the airplane laterally by 60 to 70 feet before a go-around could be attempted. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground, and the nose strut collapsed upon impact.

Damage

The incident resulted in the collapse of the nose strut.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14173. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.