Casualties unknown

2002-08-16: Cessna 120 (N72594) — Missoula, MT

Missoula, MT, US

On August 16, 2002, a Cessna 120 (registration N72594) was involved in an aviation accident near Missoula, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for the wind conditions during the landing roll. Delayed remedial action and a high crosswind condition were factors. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost control during a crosswind landing after a bounced one-wheel wheel landing, resulting in substantial wing damage when the aircraft cartwheeled.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported losing control of an airplane during a landing attempt in known high crosswind conditions. The incident occurred when the pilot attempted a one-wheel wheel landing technique, which led to a series of bounces and ultimately a loss of control.

Approach and Landing Attempt

During the approach, the pilot applied nearly full right aileron and nearly full left rudder to maintain runway alignment. The pilot described the landing technique: "I tried to do a 1 wheel, wheel landing. This is done by immediately applying forward pressure to the control column when the 1 wheel contacts the runway."

Sequence of Events

When the pilot applied forward pressure upon wheel contact, the airplane bounced. The bouncing continued for approximately 1,000 feet before the pilot decided to abort the landing. Upon applying back pressure and power, the pilot lost control of the airplane. The left wing then contacted the ground, and the aircraft cartwheeled, substantially damaging both wings.

Damage

The event resulted in substantial damage to both wings. No further details about injuries or other damage were provided in the pilot's report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020820X01436. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.