No fatalities

Student Landing Attempt Ends in Runway Excursion After Wind Shift (N519PU)

San Manuel, AZ, US

On June 16, 1998, a Cessna 172RG (registration N519PU) was involved in an aviation accident near San Manuel, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the certified flight instructor to maintain directional control while landing with a sudden windshift. 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

A flight instructor reported wind shift during landing flare caused go-around failure; aircraft veered off runway, breaking nose gear.

Incident Overview

A certified flight instructor (CFI) was supervising a student pilot during a landing approach when a sudden change in wind conditions led to a runway excursion. According to the CFI's report, the wind was initially from 090 degrees at 10 to 15 knots, with gusts ranging from 20 to 25 knots. The student initiated an approach to runway 11.

Sequence of Events

During the landing flare, the wind direction and speed shifted, becoming a right quartering tailwind. The CFI immediately took control of the aircraft and initiated a go-around. However, the aircraft failed to gain lift and veered off the runway. As a result, the nose gear broke off, and the aircraft came to rest on the main landing gear.

Mechanical Condition

The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction with the aircraft prior to the accident. The event was attributed solely to the changing wind conditions and the subsequent handling during the go-around attempt.

Conclusion

The aircraft sustained damage to its nose gear but came to rest upright on the main landing gear. No further details regarding injuries or aircraft type were provided in the report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1998 Cessna 172RG accident near San Manuel, AZ?

A flight instructor reported wind shift during landing flare caused go-around failure; aircraft veered off runway, breaking nose gear.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Jun 1998 Cessna 172RG accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1998 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N519PU, at San Manuel, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the certified flight instructor to maintain directional control while landing with a sudden windshift.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10371. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.