On May 21, 1999, a Cessna A185E (registration N50AU) was involved in an aviation accident near Othello, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions after landing. Factors include gusty winds. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing on runway 25, a wind gust weathercocked the aircraft left, causing it to depart the runway and strike a concrete pipe, separating the right landing gear.
Incident Details
A pilot reported that while turning final for runway 25, a slight drift to the right occurred. The pilot corrected the drift and flew straight on touchdown. The aircraft remained straight as it slowed down.
Sequence of Events
A gust of wind then weathercocked the airplane toward the left. The airplane left the runway and headed toward a hay field. Before reaching the field, the right landing gear struck a concrete drain inspection pipe, which separated the landing gear from the aircraft. Subsequently, the right wing tip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to turn to the right.