On October 15, 1995, a Cessna 180R (registration N3698C) was involved in an aviation accident near Seattle, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during the landing roll. A factor in the accident was the gusty wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a crosswind landing, the pilot observed the vertical speed indicator indicate full-scale descent at about 100 feet AGL, resulting in a high sink rate and the left wing striking the runway after touchdown.
Approach
The pilot reported that the approach to landing was normal, with control inputs to maintain the runway centerline due to crosswind conditions. The automated terminal information service (ATIS) indicated winds from 170 degrees at 8 knots.
Incident
At approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot noted that the airplane's vertical speed indicator displayed a full-scale down reading. In response, the pilot immediately applied full power, but a high sink rate began. The airplane touched down on the runway with full aileron and full rudder correction applied to stop the drift.
Outcome
Following the touchdown, the left wing impacted the runway before the airplane came to rest. No further details were provided by the pilot regarding injuries or damage.