On May 29, 2003, a Cessna 172N (registration N140PF) operated by Peachtree Flight Center was involved in an aviation accident near Hampton, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to continue a low pass in strong gusting winds, which resulted in loss of control and runway contact. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A certified flight instructor conducting a low pass demonstration encountered strong gusts, causing the right wing tip to strike the runway and the aircraft to cartwheel.
What happened
A certified flight instructor was operating an airplane for instructional purposes when the incident occurred. The specific objective of the maneuver was to demonstrate crosswind landing drift control techniques. To execute this demonstration, the pilot initiated a low pass over the runway.
During the execution of this low pass, the aircraft encountered strong gusting winds. These wind conditions caused the right wing tip to make contact with the runway surface. Following the initial impact, the airplane cartwheeled across the pavement before eventually coming to a rest on the runway.
The investigation
Post-acc examination revealed that there were no mechanical or flight control malfunctions reported by the pilots prior to the accident. The sequence of events appears directly linked to the environmental conditions encountered during the maneuver rather than equipment failure.
Probable cause
The pilot's improper decision to continue a low pass in strong gusting winds, which resulted in loss of control and runway contact.
What happened in the 29 May 2003 Cessna 172N accident near Hampton, GA?
A certified flight instructor conducting a low pass demonstration encountered strong gusts, causing the right wing tip to strike the runway and the aircraft to cartwheel.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 May 2003 Cessna 172N accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 May 2003 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N140PF, operated by Peachtree Flight Center, at Hampton, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper decision to continue a low pass in strong gusting winds, which resulted in loss of control and runway contact.
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