Casualties unknown

Go-Around Followed by Loss of Control in Crosswind Leads to Accident at McGehee Catfish Restaurant Airport (N84561)

Marietta, OK, US

On March 1, 1998, a Cessna 172K (registration N84561) was involved in an aviation accident near Marietta, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Unpredictable crosswinds/windshear exceeded the control capability of the aircraft. 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

On a second approach to runway 35, crosswinds and windshear exceeded the aircraft's control capability, causing it to drift right into trees. The pilot applied full power but struck a power line and came to rest inverted.

Approach and Go-Around

While on final approach to runway 35 at the McGehee Catfish Restaurant Airport, the aircraft encountered a north-westerly crosswind and the pilot performed a go-around.

Second Approach and Loss of Control

During a second approach to runway 35, unpredictable crosswinds and windshear exceeded the control capability of the aircraft. The wind blew the aircraft to the right of the runway into the top of 30-foot trees.

Maneuver and Subsequent Impact

The pilot applied full power, and the aircraft began to climb. He turned into the wind. Subsequently, the aircraft struck a power line and came to rest inverted about 100 yards south of the runway.

Reported Wind Conditions

The pilot reported that at the time of the accident, the wind was from 330 degrees at 18 knots gusting to 25 knots.

Probable cause

Unpredictable crosswinds/windshear exceeded the control capability of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Mar 1998 Cessna 172K accident near Marietta, OK?

On a second approach to runway 35, crosswinds and windshear exceeded the aircraft's control capability, causing it to drift right into trees. The pilot applied full power but struck a power line and came to rest inverted.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Mar 1998 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N84561, at Marietta, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Unpredictable crosswinds/windshear exceeded the control capability of the aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09664. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.