No fatalities

Airplane Veers Off Runway During Landing Attempt in Crosswind Conditions (N64307)

Saint Johns, AZ, US

On June 15, 2002, a Cessna 172M (registration N64307) was involved in an aviation accident near Saint Johns, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions resulting in a loss of directional control and collision with terrain. Related factors were the wind gusts, crosswind and soft terrain. 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

An airplane veered off both sides of the runway during landing and a subsequent takeoff attempt, sustaining structural damage from soft terrain.

Incident Overview

During a landing attempt, an airplane veered off the runway and encountered soft soil, resulting in damage to several structural elements. The pilot initially attempted to land on runway 21 but opted for a go-around due to improper runway alignment. After being informed of a wind shift by the Automated Surface Observation System and a fixed base operator attendant, the pilot elected to land on runway 32.

Approach and Touchdown

The pilot configured the airplane with 5 degrees of flaps and prepared for landing. During the approach, approximately 5 to 6 feet above ground level, the airplane experienced a loss of altitude and yawed to the left. Upon touchdown, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway.

Subsequent Maneuvers

The pilot maneuvered the airplane back onto the runway and attempted to gain airspeed for a takeoff. However, the airplane veered off the right side of the runway, prompting the pilot to reduce power to idle. The airplane continued down a dirt hill and came to rest after the nose wheel dug into soft terrain.

Meteorological Conditions

Winds at the airport were reported from 250 degrees at 20 knots, with gusts up to 26 knots. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Jun 2002 Cessna 172M accident near Saint Johns, AZ?

An airplane veered off both sides of the runway during landing and a subsequent takeoff attempt, sustaining structural damage from soft terrain.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jun 2002 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N64307, at Saint Johns, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions resulting in a loss of directional control and collision with terrain. Related factors were the wind gusts, crosswind and soft terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020620X00948. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.