On April 1, 1992, a Cessna 172B (registration N7492X) operated by George E. Verhalen was involved in an aviation accident near Scottsville, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control during the initial climb due to a wind shift from a headwind to a crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an initial climb from a private grass airstrip, a wind shift from headwind to crosswind caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft, resulting in an impact with the terrain.
What happened
The accident occurred during a daytime flight operation involving an initial climb phase. The departure took place from a private grass airstrip. According to the pilot's account, the weather conditions included wind from 320 degrees at 12 knots, with gusts reaching 18 knots.
During the climb, the wind direction shifted. This shift changed the relative wind from a headwind to a crosswind. The pilot attempted to compensate for this sudden change in wind conditions and regain control of the airplane. Despite these efforts, the aircraft impacted the terrain.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control during the initial climb due to a wind shift from a headwind to a crosswind.
What happened in the 1 Apr 1992 Cessna 172B accident near Scottsville, TX?
During an initial climb from a private grass airstrip, a wind shift from headwind to crosswind caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft, resulting in an impact with the terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Apr 1992 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N7492X, operated by George E. Verhalen, at Scottsville, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control during the initial climb due to a wind shift from a headwind to a crosswind.
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