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Student Pilot on First Solo Flight Experiences Crosswind, Collides with Ditch (N64198)

Truckee, CA, US

On August 24, 1996, a Cessna 172M (registration N64198) was involved in an aviation accident near Truckee, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control. The encounter with a ditch was a related factor. 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 a student pilot's first solo flight, a crosswind caused the airplane to yaw left and exit the runway, resulting in a collision with a ditch. No preexisting malfunctions were reported.

Incident Overview

A student pilot on his first solo flight conducted two landing attempts on runway 28. The first full-stop landing was completed without incident. During the second landing, a left crosswind condition caused the airplane's left wing to rise and the airplane to yaw to the left. The student pilot applied right rudder input to counteract the yaw, but the maneuver was unsuccessful. The airplane subsequently departed the runway surface and collided with a ditch.

Reported Conditions

The student pilot and the operator both stated that the airplane experienced no preexisting malfunctions or failures prior to the incident. Surface wind observations reported winds from the southeast at 6 knots, gusting to 15 knots.

Sequence of Events

  • First landing: Normal, full-stop landing on runway 28.
  • Second landing: On approach and touchdown, a left crosswind lifted the left wing and induced a left yaw.
  • Pilot action: Right rudder applied but ineffective.
  • Outcome: Airplane exited the runway and struck a ditch.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Aug 1996 Cessna 172M accident near Truckee, CA?

During a student pilot's first solo flight, a crosswind caused the airplane to yaw left and exit the runway, resulting in a collision with a ditch. No preexisting malfunctions were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Aug 1996 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Aug 1996 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N64198, at Truckee, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the student pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control. The encounter with a ditch was a related factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06559. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.