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Private Pilot Loses Control During Crosswind Landing, Collides with Trees (N3743R)

Commerce, TX, US

On July 24, 1998, a Cessna 172H (registration N3743R) was involved in an aviation accident near Commerce, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind resulting in a loss of control. A factor was the crosswind. 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

During a crosswind landing on runway 18, the private pilot lost control after touchdown. The airplane bounced, the left wing tip struck the runway, and the airplane turned left. The pilot attempted a go-around but then reduced power and landed, colliding with trees during the ground roll.

Accident Sequence

While landing on runway 18 with a right crosswind, the private pilot experienced a loss of control. After touchdown, the airplane bounced. According to the pilot, the wind 'got under' the right wing following the bounce. This caused the left wing tip to contact the runway, after which the airplane turned to the left.

Go-Around Attempt

The pilot initially responded by adding power to abort the landing and go around. However, upon realizing that it would not be possible to clear the tree line ahead, he reduced power and continued the landing.

Collision with Trees

During the ground roll, the airplane collided with trees. The pilot reported that the wind conditions at the time were from 240 degrees at 17 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jul 1998 Cessna 172H accident near Commerce, TX?

During a crosswind landing on runway 18, the private pilot lost control after touchdown. The airplane bounced, the left wing tip struck the runway, and the airplane turned left. The pilot attempted a go-around but then reduced power and landed, colliding with trees during the ground roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jul 1998 Cessna 172H accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jul 1998 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N3743R, at Commerce, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind resulting in a loss of control. A factor was the crosswind.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10584. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.