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Pilot Overcorrects for Crosswind, Leads to Runway Excursion During Touch and Go (N4642J)

Durango, CO, US

On February 17, 2002, a Cessna 172N (registration N4642J) was involved in an aviation accident near Durango, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. Contributing factors were the crosswind and the pilot's fatigue from lack of sleep. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a touch and go landing on runway 19, a pilot overcorrected for a right crosswind, causing the aircraft to exit the runway, strike a dirt pile, and collapse the left main gear.

Accident Details

During a touch and go landing on runway 19, the pilot reported overcorrecting for a slight right crosswind. This caused the aircraft to depart the right side of the runway. After leaving the runway surface, the airplane struck a pile of dirt, resulting in the collapse of the left main landing gear. The aircraft subsequently crossed the runway and came to rest on the east side.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated, "I had slept poorly the previous two nights and in retrospect, I believe fatigue was a significant factor in this accident." No other details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or date were provided in the source.

Aftermath

The aircraft sustained damage to the left main landing gear. No information about injuries, fatalities, or other damage was reported.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Feb 2002 Cessna 172N accident near Durango, CO?

During a touch and go landing on runway 19, a pilot overcorrected for a right crosswind, causing the aircraft to exit the runway, strike a dirt pile, and collapse the left main gear.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Feb 2002 Cessna 172N accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Feb 2002 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4642J, at Durango, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. Contributing factors were the crosswind and the pilot's fatigue from lack of sleep.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020220X00238. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.