Casualties unknown

1992-10-10: Cessna R172K (N736WZ) — Monterey Navy Flying Club — Picacho, AZ

Picacho, AZ, US

On October 10, 1992, a Cessna R172K (registration N736WZ) operated by Monterey Navy Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Picacho, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S ENCOUNTER WITH THE UNFORECASTED CYCLONIC WIND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

While practicing takeoffs and landings at an uncontrolled airport, a pilot encountered a strong wind gust from a dust devil during flare, causing the left wing to strike the runway.

Pre-Flight and Initial Maneuvers

Before departing on the accident flight, the pilot contacted the Flight Service Station (FSS) and learned that no adverse weather had been reported. The pilot then flew to a local area to practice basic maneuvers. After completing those, he proceeded to an uncontrolled airport with the intention of practicing takeoffs and landings.

Arrival and Traffic Pattern

Upon arriving over the airport, the pilot broadcast his intentions to land but received no response. He overflew the airport and determined that the surface winds were light and favored Runway 33. The pilot then flew a normal left traffic pattern.

The Landing and Incident

During the flare for landing, a strong wind gust associated with a dust devil suddenly raised the right wing. Before the pilot could correct the situation, the left wing struck the runway.

Aftermath

The accident resulted in the aircraft coming to rest on the runway. The source does not provide details on further outcomes.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15898. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.