Aircraft ground loop and collision with VASI lights

Casualties unknown • Corona, CA, US

An aircraft veered off the runway during landing rollout due to a wind gust, resulting in a collision with a light fixture.

What happened

During the landing rollout on runway 25, the pilot encountered a wind gust of 16 to 20 knots originating from 240 degrees. This sudden change in wind caused the pilot to lose directional control of the aircraft. The airplane veered off the runway and collided with a visual approach slope indicator (VASI) light fixture.

The initial approach, touchdown, and the early stages of the rollout were reported as normal. A witness positioned on the tarmac confirmed that wind gusts reached approximately 20 knots around the time of the accident. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures experienced during the flight.

Probable cause

The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft during the landing rollout due to a wind gust.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-04-23 Cessna 180 accident near Corona, CA?

An aircraft veered off the runway during landing rollout due to a wind gust, resulting in a collision with a light fixture.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-04-23 involved a Cessna 180, registration N270KC, operated by Robert J. Allen, at Corona, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft during the landing rollout due to a wind gust.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050506X00565. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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