Aircraft excursion and hangar collision during go-around

Casualties unknown • Columbus, MT, US

An aircraft experienced a loss of directional control during a missed approach, resulting in collisions with two airport hangars.

What happened

During an approach to runway 28, the pilot encountered thunderstorms, showers, and strong crosswinds. After flying in the area for approximately 30 minutes, the pilot attempted a landing without flaps extended. Due to excessive airspeed, a go-around was initiated.

On the second landing attempt, using one notch of flaps, the Cessna (type not specified in source) touched down. The pilot maintained directional control until the tail made contact with the ground, at which point a strong gust of wind from the left struck the aircraft. As the pilot increased power to execute another go-around, the engine momentarily hesitated. This caused the aircraft to veer to the right at a 45-degree angle from the runway surface.

The aircraft traveled across the median and through the taxiway ramp before becoming airborne. In an attempt to avoid the first hangar, the pilot banked the aircraft to the left, but the right wing struck the corner of the structure. The aircraft continued for approximately 50 yards before colliding with the roof of a second hangar. There were no injuries reported.

Findings

Witnesses noted that the area was experiencing thunderstorms with strong south winds gusting between 15 and 20 knots.

Probable cause

A strong gust of wind from the left caused a loss of directional control during a go-around, compounded by an engine hesitation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-06-05 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Columbus, MT?

An aircraft experienced a loss of directional control during a missed approach, resulting in collisions with two airport hangars.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-06-05 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N82172, at Columbus, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A strong gust of wind from the left caused a loss of directional control during a go-around, compounded by an engine hesitation.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040608X00752. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…