Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Wind Gust During Landing Leads to Wing Strike and Gear Collapse (N699WL)

Thompson Falls, MT, US

On August 9, 2001, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N699WL) was involved in an aviation accident near Thompson Falls, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation in gusting wind conditions during the landing flare. A tree was a factor. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During flare for touchdown, a wind gust lifted the left wing; pilot applied full power but stall horn sounded. Aircraft drifted right, left wing struck a pine tree, then collapsed nose and left main landing gear upon touchdown, spinning 180 degrees.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during the flare for touchdown, a sudden gust of wind lifted the left wing. In response, the pilot applied full power in an attempt to stabilize the aircraft.

Stall Warning and Drift

Following the power application, the stall horn sounded, and the aircraft began to drift to the right side of the runway.

Wing Strike

The pilot was successful in stabilizing the aircraft; however, during this process, the left wing collided with a pine tree.

Touchdown and Gear Collapse

The airplane touched down, at which point the nose landing gear and left main landing gear collapsed.

Post-Impact Movement

After the landing gear collapsed, the airplane spun approximately 180 degrees before coming to rest.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft at the time of the incident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010814X01684. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.