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Landing Bounce and Overcorrection Lead to Runway Excursion (N4338B)

Payson, AZ, US

On June 15, 2001, a Cessna 170B (registration N4338B) operated by Joe F. West was involved in an aviation accident near Payson, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and improper corrective action while landing in a quartering tailwind condition. A contributing factor was his lack of experience in the type of operation. 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 on runway 24 with a light tailwind, the pilot bounced, overcorrected, then lost directional control after braking, resulting in skid marks and a veer off the runway.

Event Description

The pilot performed a landing on runway 24 under conditions that included a light tailwind. The wind was from 040 degrees at 3 knots, creating a right quartering tailwind component. Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced. In an attempt to recover from the bounce, the pilot overcorrected. Subsequently, the pilot applied brakes, which led to a loss of directional control. The aircraft's tires left skid marks measuring approximately 300 feet on the runway surface before the aircraft veered off the side of the runway.

Pilot Comments

The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if they had acquired more experience handling the aircraft in the prevailing conditions. No other factors were cited by the pilot or evident from the description.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Jun 2001 Cessna 170B accident near Payson, AZ?

During landing on runway 24 with a light tailwind, the pilot bounced, overcorrected, then lost directional control after braking, resulting in skid marks and a veer off the runway.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jun 2001 Cessna 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Jun 2001 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N4338B, operated by Joe F. West, at Payson, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and improper corrective action while landing in a quartering tailwind condition. A contributing factor was his lack of experience in the type of operation.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010622X01245. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.