Loss of Control During Approach Due to Wind Gusts

Casualties unknown • Big Bear City, CA, US

A pilot lost control of an aircraft during the final stages of an approach after encountering a wind gust, resulting in a runway impact and landing gear collapse.

What happened

While approaching runway 26, the pilot received information via the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) from airport personnel regarding current weather conditions. The automated weather observing system (AWOS) reported winds of 13 knots with gusts reaching 28 knots, and a variable direction ranging from 170 to 230 degrees.

In response to these conditions, the pilot reduced the approach speed to 90 knots and set the flaps to the normal midrange position. Approximately 30 feet above the runway, the aircraft encountered a wind gust, causing the pilot to lose control. The airplane impacted the runway, yawed sideways, and came to a rest with a bent fuselage and a collapsed landing gear. The occupants were not injured.

Safety message

The manufacturer's Pilot's Operating Manual recommends that during high-wind or crosswind conditions, pilots should consider using no flaps and maintaining an approach speed higher than the normal 90 knots.

Probable cause

The pilot lost control of the aircraft after encountering a wind gust during the final approach to the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-02-27 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Big Bear City, CA?

A pilot lost control of an aircraft during the final stages of an approach after encountering a wind gust, resulting in a runway impact and landing gear collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-02-27 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N15202, operated by Kenneth K. Gheysar, at Big Bear City, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost control of the aircraft after encountering a wind gust during the final approach to the runway.

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