On May 20, 1996, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N38890) was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and her delay in aborting the landing. The gusty crosswind condition was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight experienced a bounce and subsequent loss of control during a landing in gusty conditions, resulting in the airplane overturning on the runway.
Incident Details
A student pilot was returning from a solo cross-country flight when she encountered gusty wind conditions. After obtaining local weather information indicating winds gusting to 16 knots, she planned a landing to runway 01. During the landing attempt, the airplane touched down and bounced. The student then applied power to initiate a go-around. According to her account, as she applied throttle, a wind gust appeared to lift the left wing. The airplane subsequently became inverted and slid down the runway. The student reported that the airplane experienced no mechanical malfunction.
Weather Information
At the time of the incident, weather conditions were reported at a nearby airport. About 7 miles northwest at Sullivan County Airport, the 0956 eastern daylight time wind observation showed wind from 290 degrees at 15 knots with gusts to 21 knots.
What happened in the 20 May 1996 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Monticello, NY?
A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight experienced a bounce and subsequent loss of control during a landing in gusty conditions, resulting in the airplane overturning on the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 May 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N38890, at Monticello, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the student pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and her delay in aborting the landing. The gusty crosswind condition was a related factor.
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