On August 12, 1997, a Cessna 177 (registration N2827X) was involved in an aviation accident near Louisville, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate compensation for wind conditions by the pilot. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot completing touch and go landings on runway 14 veered left after touchdown, collided with trees and a fence. No mechanical malfunction reported. Winds from 200 degrees at 9 knots.
Accident Details
The accident occurred during a third touch and go landing on runway 14. The pilot had successfully completed two touch and go landings prior. During the third attempt, the aircraft touched down on the left side of the runway. The pilot reported that he initiated a go-around, but a crosswind pushed the aircraft further left. The airplane then veered off the left side of the runway and struck trees and a fence.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, there was no mechanical malfunction with the airplane or its engine. The pilot's actions were described as attempting a go-around after the off-center touchdown. The crosswind was cited as the reason the aircraft was pushed left after the go-around began.
Weather Conditions
The reported winds at the time of the accident were from 200 degrees at 9 knots. The runway in use was 14, indicating a crosswind component from the left.