On April 16, 2001, a Cessna A185F (registration N252W) was involved in an aviation accident near Fayetteville, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout due to a gust of wind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing rollout, a wind gust caused an uncorrected left turn, leading to a ground loop that damaged the right wing and horizontal stabilizer.
What happened
The pilot reported that while conducting the landing rollout, a sudden gust of wind pushed the airplane toward the left side. Despite attempts to counteract this drift and maintain directional control, the corrections proved ineffective. Consequently, the aircraft ground looped sharply to the left by approximately 90 degrees before finally coming to a stop on the runway surface.
The investigation
Post-accident inspection revealed significant structural damage resulting from the loss of control during the rollout phase. The right wing and the horizontal stabilizer made contact with the runway, sustaining damage from the impact.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout due to a gust of wind.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Apr 2001 Cessna A185F accident near Fayetteville, NC?
During landing rollout, a wind gust caused an uncorrected left turn, leading to a ground loop that damaged the right wing and horizontal stabilizer.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Apr 2001 Cessna A185F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Apr 2001 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N252W, at Fayetteville, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout due to a gust of wind.
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