Casualties unknown

Right Wing Tip Strike During Touch-and-Go Landing Leads to Runway Excursion (N6045D)

Reno, NV, US

On August 14, 2005, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N6045D) operated by Diane Bigby was involved in an aviation accident near Reno, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind gust and failure to maintain lateral and directional control during the landing flare. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a touch-and-go landing on runway 26, the right wing tip struck the ground, causing the airplane to veer off the runway and come to rest nose-down on adjacent terrain. The pilot cited a southerly wind gust; no mechanical issues found.

Accident Overview

During the landing flare of a touch-and-go landing on runway 26, the right wing tip of the airplane contacted the ground. The airplane subsequently veered off the runway and came to rest adjacent to the runway on level dirt terrain in a nose-down attitude.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that the accident occurred during the fourth touch-and-go landing. The pilot stated that while on approach, the airplane encountered a southerly wind gust, which the pilot attributed to the loss of control during the flare.

Mechanical and Weather Conditions

According to the pilot, no mechanical malfunction was experienced with the airplane during the flight. Minutes before and after the accident, the airport's automated weather station reported the wind as calm, with no directional variation noted.

Final Position

The airplane came to rest in a nose-down attitude on level dirt ground adjacent to the runway. The right wing tip showed evidence of ground contact consistent with the initial loss of control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050916X01484. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.