On April 7, 1998, a Cessna TR182 (registration N5460T) operated by Lloyd Denlinger was involved in an aviation accident near Maricopa, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of the wind direction and speed, and, his inadequate compensation for those conditions. A factor in the accident was the short runway length, which limited the pilot's time to attempt a go-around. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot misjudged wind conditions and encountered a sudden gust from behind after touchdown, resulting in an overrun and collision with an embankment at a private airstrip.
Circumstances
A pilot flying a single-engine aircraft approached a private dirt strip for landing. Prior to landing, the pilot observed a windsock located approximately 1 mile to the north, which indicated a light wind from the north. After overflying the strip, the pilot noted that a windsock at the field indicated no wind. Based on this observation, the pilot elected to land to the north.
Landing and Overrun
Following touchdown, the pilot reported that a sudden gust of wind came from behind the aircraft. The gust caused the pilot to be unable to stop the aircraft before it overran the runway. The aircraft continued beyond the runway and encountered an embankment.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that he had misjudged the wind's velocity and recognized the error too late to attempt a go-around. The pilot also reported that there were no mechanical difficulties with the aircraft prior to or during the event.
What happened in the 7 Apr 1998 Cessna TR182 accident near Maricopa, CA?
A pilot misjudged wind conditions and encountered a sudden gust from behind after touchdown, resulting in an overrun and collision with an embankment at a private airstrip.
Were there any fatalities in the 7 Apr 1998 Cessna TR182 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Apr 1998 involved a Cessna TR182, registration N5460T, operated by Lloyd Denlinger, at Maricopa, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's misjudgment of the wind direction and speed, and, his inadequate compensation for those conditions. A factor in the accident was the short runway length, which limited the pilot's time to attempt a go-around.
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