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Aircraft Veers Off Runway After Crosswind Encounter During Landing Roll (N4948Q)

Medford, OR, US

On April 8, 2005, a Cessna 185F (registration N4948Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Medford, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. Factors include variable winds that at times were crosswinds. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During landing in variable wind, an aircraft veered sharply after encountering a crosswind, causing a wing to contact the ground and sustain substantial damage. Pilot reported no flight control issues.

Accident Overview

According to the pilot, the landing approach and touchdown were uneventful, despite variable wind conditions. The initial landing roll also proceeded without incident. However, as the aircraft slowed, it encountered a crosswind that the pilot was unable to adequately compensate for.

Sequence of Events

Almost immediately after the crosswind was encountered, the aircraft veered sharply toward the side of the runway. During this event, one of the wings made contact with the ground. A subsequent inspection determined that the wing structure had sustained substantial damage.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there was nothing wrong with the flight control or rudder system. In a post-accident interview with the Investigator-In-Charge, the pilot stated that the aircraft just got away from him.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 2005 Cessna 185F accident near Medford, OR?

During landing in variable wind, an aircraft veered sharply after encountering a crosswind, causing a wing to contact the ground and sustain substantial damage. Pilot reported no flight control issues.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Apr 2005 Cessna 185F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 2005 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N4948Q, at Medford, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. Factors include variable winds that at times were crosswinds.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050416X00468. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.