Pilot loses control during landing roll due to wind gusts

Casualties unknown • Kemmerer, WY, US

A pilot encountered a wind gust during the landing roll on runway 16, causing the aircraft to swerve right and depart the runway.

What happened

The pilot was operating an aircraft en route and received automated surface observing system (ASOS) weather updates. Approximately thirty minutes before the planned landing, reported winds at the destination airport were from 160 degrees at 6 knots. As the aircraft approached, approximately ten nautical miles out, an updated report indicated winds had shifted to 120 degrees at 3 knots.

During the landing roll on runway 16, the pilot encountered a gust of wind. The pilot attempted to regain control, but the airplane swerved to the right and departed the right side of the runway. The airplane's left main landing gear struck a ditch and the left wing tip struck the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-04-20 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Kemmerer, WY?

A pilot encountered a wind gust during the landing roll on runway 16, causing the aircraft to swerve right and depart the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-04-20 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N40520, at Kemmerer, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control and his inadequate compensation for wind during the landing roll which resulted in a ground loop/swerve and impact with terrain. Contributing factors include the wind gust and the ditch.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030424X00561. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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