Casualties unknown

Pilot Aborts Landing After Gust, Airplane Strikes Trees (N20952)

Fayetteville, WV, US

On June 20, 1999, a Cessna 172M (registration N20952) was involved in an aviation accident near Fayetteville, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the aborted landing. A factor in this accident was the crosswind condition. 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

An airplane aborted a landing on runway 21 due to a gust of wind, veered right, and impacted trees near the runway. No malfunctions were found.

Incident Overview

The pilot of an airplane landing on runway 21 at an airstrip with a 2,010-foot-long, 20-foot-wide asphalt runway reported aborting the landing after encountering a gust of wind. The pilot determined that insufficient runway remained to complete the landing safely.

Sequence of Events

During the aborted landing, the airplane veered to the right of the runway and subsequently impacted near the tops of trees. The trees, estimated to be 50 to 60 feet tall, were located approximately 230 feet to the right of the runway.

Wreckage Examination

Post-incident examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of pre-impact malfunctions of the airframe or engine. The pilot also did not report any mechanical issues prior to the event.

Weather Conditions

Wind reported at a nearby airport was from 100 degrees at 6 knots. The pilot mentioned a gust of wind as a factor in the aborted landing.

Conclusion

The airplane struck trees after aborting the landing due to a wind gust and insufficient runway length. No mechanical anomalies were identified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jun 1999 Cessna 172M accident near Fayetteville, WV?

An airplane aborted a landing on runway 21 due to a gust of wind, veered right, and impacted trees near the runway. No malfunctions were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jun 1999 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N20952, at Fayetteville, WV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the aborted landing. A factor in this accident was the crosswind condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19102. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.