On October 12, 2003, a Cessna 172P (registration N52254) was involved in an aviation accident near Pell City, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare after removing crosswind correction, which led to a collision with a tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot lost directional control during a crosswind touch-and-go landing on runway 02, causing the aircraft to drift left and strike a tree, resulting in structural damage.
What happened
The incident occurred while a student pilot was attempting a crosswind touch-and-go landing on runway 02. During the critical phase of the landing flare, the pilot removed the necessary crosswind correction inputs. This action resulted in a loss of directional control, causing the airplane to drift to the left above the runway surface. The aircraft subsequently collided with a tree located near the approach path.
The investigation
Post-impact examination revealed significant structural damage to the airframe. One wing sustained substantial structural damage, and the firewall was found to be buckled due to the impact forces.
Probable cause
The student pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare after removing crosswind correction, which led to a collision with a tree.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Oct 2003 Cessna 172P accident near Pell City, AL?
A student pilot lost directional control during a crosswind touch-and-go landing on runway 02, causing the aircraft to drift left and strike a tree, resulting in structural damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Oct 2003 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N52254, at Pell City, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare after removing crosswind correction, which led to a collision with a tree.
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