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Casualties unknown

Crosswind Cessation During Approach Leads to Wingtip Strike and Damage (N3376R)

Hopkinsville, KY, US

On August 18, 1994, a Cessna 182L (registration N3376R) operated by Smith, Marion L. was involved in an aviation accident near Hopkinsville, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALIGNMENT AND ADEQUATE OBSTACLE CLEARANCE. 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

During landing approach to a private airstrip, a 6-knot crosswind ceased when the airplane leveled with cornstalks. The airplane drifted right, the right wingtip struck cornstalks, and the airplane swung into them, damaging the wings.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during a landing approach to a private airstrip, a direct crosswind of 6 knots was present. The pilot stated he was compensating for the crosswind throughout the approach. When the airplane became level with cornstalks that ran alongside the runway, the crosswind suddenly ceased.

Sequence of Events

As the crosswind stopped, the airplane drifted to the right. The right wingtip struck the cornstalks, causing the airplane to swing around into the cornstalks. The wings sustained damage as a result of the contact.

Damage

The airplane's wings were damaged during the incident. No other damage was reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Aug 1994 Cessna 182L accident near Hopkinsville, KY?

During landing approach to a private airstrip, a 6-knot crosswind ceased when the airplane leveled with cornstalks. The airplane drifted right, the right wingtip struck cornstalks, and the airplane swung into them, damaging the wings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Aug 1994 involved a Cessna 182L, registration N3376R, operated by Smith, Marion L., at Hopkinsville, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALIGNMENT AND ADEQUATE OBSTACLE CLEARANCE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01964. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.