On May 25, 1993, a Cessna TU206G (registration N5203X) operated by Heaton, Richard J. was involved in an aviation accident near Mountain Home, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to attempt a landing on a highway in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in loss of control and contact with the surface. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting a highway landing in gusty conditions lost control near touchdown when the left wing struck the surface, causing the aircraft to spin.
What happened
The pilot reported that he was overseeing construction work on a highway and decided to land the aircraft directly on the roadway. He encountered gusting wind conditions during the approach. As the airplane descended to approximately five feet above the intended touchdown point, it drifted laterally to the side in response to the wind shear.
Attempting to recover from the drift, the pilot applied full throttle to gain altitude. However, the maneuver was unsuccessful. The left wing of the aircraft contacted the highway surface, which caused the airplane to spin around on the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to attempt a landing on a highway in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in loss of control and contact with the surface.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 May 1993 Cessna TU206G accident near Mountain Home, ID?
A pilot attempting a highway landing in gusty conditions lost control near touchdown when the left wing struck the surface, causing the aircraft to spin.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 May 1993 involved a Cessna TU206G, registration N5203X, operated by Heaton, Richard J., at Mountain Home, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to attempt a landing on a highway in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in loss of control and contact with the surface.
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