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Aircraft Ground Loops After Encountering Strong Crosswind Gust on Landing (N4390R)

Carson City, NV, US

On August 8, 1994, a Cessna 172M (registration N4390R) operated by Erwin E. Martell was involved in an aviation accident near Carson City, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's decision to attempt a landing in crosswind conditions which exceeded the capability of the aircraft. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported losing control during landing on runway 27 due to a strong left-quartering wind gust, causing the aircraft to veer off and ground loop. Winds were from 220 degrees at 15 knots with gusts estimated at 25 knots or higher, exceeding the aircraft's 15-knot maximum demonstrated crosswind.

Incident Details

A pilot reported that during landing on runway 27, the aircraft encountered a very strong left-quartering wind gust at touchdown. The pilot was unable to maintain control, and the aircraft veered off the runway and ground looped.

Wind Conditions

An FAA inspector reported that the wind was from 220 degrees at 15 knots, with gusts estimated at 25 knots or higher. The minimum gust crosswind component for the observed winds was computed at 17 knots.

Aircraft Specifications

According to the Cessna Aircraft Company, the maximum demonstrated crosswind for this aircraft is 15 knots.

No other details were provided regarding injuries, damage, or other factors.

Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Aug 1994 Cessna 172M accident near Carson City, NV?

A pilot reported losing control during landing on runway 27 due to a strong left-quartering wind gust, causing the aircraft to veer off and ground loop. Winds were from 220 degrees at 15 knots with gusts estimated at 25 knots or higher, exceeding the aircraft's 15-knot maximum demonstrated crosswind.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Aug 1994 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N4390R, operated by Erwin E. Martell, at Carson City, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's decision to attempt a landing in crosswind conditions which exceeded the capability of the aircraft.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02070. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.