On February 25, 1998, a Cessna 172D (registration N2526U) operated by Stefan Bauer was involved in an aviation accident near EL Paso, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while landing, which resulted from high wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landed on runway 24 and exited onto a taxiway during high winds. The aircraft was lifted off the ground and flipped over due to gusty conditions.
What happened
The pilot reported that he successfully landed the airplane on runway 24. While exiting the active runway onto the taxiway, the aircraft encountered strong wind conditions. The winds at the time of the accident were reported from 240 degrees, at 46 knots, with gusts to 51 knots. During this maneuver, the airplane was lifted off the ground and flipped over.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the high wind conditions present during the taxiing phase. The combination of crosswind and gusts likely contributed to the loss of control and subsequent flipping of the aircraft.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while landing, which resulted from high wind conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 Feb 1998 Cessna 172D accident near EL Paso, TX?
A pilot landed on runway 24 and exited onto a taxiway during high winds. The aircraft was lifted off the ground and flipped over due to gusty conditions.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Feb 1998 involved a Cessna 172D, registration N2526U, operated by Stefan Bauer, at EL Paso, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while landing, which resulted from high wind conditions.
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