Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Loses Control During Go-Around After Crosswind Apprehension (N181WC)

The Dalles, OR, US

On February 22, 2005, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N181WC) operated by Sue K. Kushlan was involved in an aviation accident near The Dalles, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's improper compensation for the wind condition and the improper rejected landing procedure, which resulted in the collision with terrain. A contributing factor to the accident was the crosswind condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on final approach became anxious about landing in crosswind conditions and initiated a go-around. Confusion about pitch control led to the left wing striking the ground, causing the aircraft to cartwheel and sustain substantial damage.

Event Details

On final approach, a student pilot experienced anxiety about performing a landing with a crosswind, as she had received no prior training in crosswind landing techniques. While on approach, the wind pushed the aircraft to the left. The pilot elected to abort the landing and initiated a go-around.

Sequence of Events

During the go-around, the pilot became confused and could not recall whether the nose should be pitched up or down. The aircraft initially pitched down, resulting in the left wing impacting the ground. The airplane then cartwheeled before coming to rest in an upright position. The left wing was separated into three pieces.

Damage Assessment

The aircraft sustained structural damage, with the left wing separated into multiple pieces. The extent of damage to other components is not specified in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Feb 2005 Piper PA-28-181 accident near The Dalles, OR?

A student pilot on final approach became anxious about landing in crosswind conditions and initiated a go-around. Confusion about pitch control led to the left wing striking the ground, causing the aircraft to cartwheel and sustain substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Feb 2005 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N181WC, operated by Sue K. Kushlan, at The Dalles, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's improper compensation for the wind condition and the improper rejected landing procedure, which resulted in the collision with terrain. A contributing factor to the accident was the crosswind condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050406X00424. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.