Aircraft excursion and tree collision during landing

Casualties unknown • Indian Trail, NC, US

An aircraft veered off the runway and collided with a tree following a bounced landing caused by a strong crosswind.

What happened

During the landing phase, the pilot experienced a strong crosswind that caused the Cessna (type not specified in source) to weathervane to the right. The aircraft bounced upon touchdown. In an attempt to recover from the bounce, the pilot overcorrected, causing the airplane to run off the right side of the runway.

The pilot attempted to execute a climb-out; however, the aircraft lacked sufficient airspeed to gain altitude, reaching only approximately three feet above the ground. The aircraft subsequently collided with a tree and came to rest partially in a pond, located 1300 feet from the approach end and 30 feet to the right of runway 22.

At the time of the accident, wind conditions were reported from a heading of 280 degrees, with a speed of 11 knots and gusts up to 19 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions prior to the event.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the wings, the propeller, and the right door panel. Post-examination of the aircraft did not reveal any mechanical problems.

Probable cause

The pilot's overcorrection during a bounced landing in crosswind conditions led to the aircraft running off the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-01-30 Piper PA-22-135 accident near Indian Trail, NC?

An aircraft veered off the runway and collided with a tree following a bounced landing caused by a strong crosswind.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-01-30 involved a Piper PA-22-135, registration N1107C, at Indian Trail, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's overcorrection during a bounced landing in crosswind conditions led to the aircraft running off the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040206X00170. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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