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Aircraft Exits Runway After Encountering Wind Gust During Landing (N1364N)

Destin, FL, US

On April 17, 2001, a North American AT-6D (registration N1364N) operated by North American-top Gun Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Destin, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the flight instructor to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing rollout while landing with a crosswind in gusty conditions, which resulted in a ground swerve, and the aircraft exiting the runway and incurring substantial… 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 landing approach, a wind gust caused the aircraft to weather vane and exit the runway into loose sand, resulting in substantial damage.

Accident Description

A flight instructor reported that during the approach to land, just prior to touchdown with the main landing gear, the aircraft encountered wind gusts. As the tail of the aircraft began to settle, a gust from the right front quarter caused the aircraft to weather vane to the right. The instructor applied corrective control input, but stated that insufficient control authority was available to arrest the excursion.

Instructor's Account

The aircraft exited the runway to the right and entered loose sand, resulting in substantial damage. The instructor further stated that prior to the accident there had been no malfunction or failure of the aircraft or any of its systems.

Damage

The aircraft sustained substantial damage as a result of the runway excursion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Apr 2001 North American AT-6D accident near Destin, FL?

During landing approach, a wind gust caused the aircraft to weather vane and exit the runway into loose sand, resulting in substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Apr 2001 North American AT-6D accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Apr 2001 involved a North American AT-6D, registration N1364N, operated by North American-top Gun Inc., at Destin, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

failure of the flight instructor to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing rollout while landing with a crosswind in gusty conditions, which resulted in a ground swerve, and the aircraft exiting the runway and incurring substantial damage when it became stuck in sand.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010418X00771. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.