On April 27, 1996, a Cessna 172L (registration N7546G) was involved in an aviation accident near Culpeper, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper compensation for the crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A newly licensed private pilot applied left rudder instead of right during landing, causing the airplane to drift left on runway 4 at an uncontrolled airport. No weather data was available at the airport, but nearby reported winds from 300° at 14 knots.
Pilot's Account
A newly licensed private pilot reported that he flew over the uncontrolled airport and did not notice any appreciable wind. He decided to land to the northeast on runway 4. The pilot stated that he landed on the center of the runway, but the airplane began to drift to the left. He knew the airplane was drifting to the left and wanted to apply right rudder but actually applied left rudder and possibly some brake by mistake.
Weather Conditions
No weather was recorded at the airport. However, a large commercial airport to the northeast reported winds from 300 magnetic at 14 knots at the time of the accident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 Apr 1996 Cessna 172L accident near Culpeper, VA?
A newly licensed private pilot applied left rudder instead of right during landing, causing the airplane to drift left on runway 4 at an uncontrolled airport. No weather data was available at the airport, but nearby reported winds from 300° at 14 knots.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Apr 1996 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N7546G, at Culpeper, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper compensation for the crosswind.
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