On April 17, 1993, a Cessna 180 (registration N2738K) was involved in an aviation accident near Jonesboro, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll after swerving to avoid a deer. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting a landing in strong left crosswind conditions lost directional control after swerving right to avoid a deer crossing the runway, resulting in a nose-over accident.
What happened
The pilot reported that he was conducting a landing approach in aircraft experiencing a strong left crosswind. Upon touchdown on the runway, a deer suddenly darted across the pavement from the right side. In an effort to avoid striking the animal, the pilot swerved abruptly to the right. This maneuver caused him to lose directional control of the airplane. The left wing subsequently dragged along the ground as the aircraft rolled into a shallow, wide ditch, causing the nose to over.
Findings
The loss of directional control was directly linked to the evasive action taken during the landing roll. The combination of the strong crosswind conditions and the sudden swerve to the right prevented the pilot from maintaining runway alignment. The aircraft's left wing contacting the ground indicates a significant departure from the intended flight path during the critical phase of the landing.
Safety message
This incident highlights the dangers of wildlife on runways and the difficulty of maintaining control during evasive maneuvers, particularly in crosswind conditions. Pilots must remain vigilant for wildlife hazards and be prepared for the aerodynamic consequences of sudden steering inputs while on the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll after swerving to avoid a deer.