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Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Loses Control During Go-Around, Strikes Tree (N9952W)

Woodworth, LA, US

On July 22, 2006, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N9952W) was involved in an aviation accident near Woodworth, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a tree. Contributing factors were the sudden wind shift and the gusty wind conditions. 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

A 67-hour private pilot lost directional control during a go-around after a wind gust lifted the wing on final approach. The aircraft departed the runway and struck a tree about 600 yards from the runway.

Accident Details

A private pilot with 67 hours of total flight experience was conducting a landing on runway 01 of a 3,100-foot long by 75-foot wide asphalt runway. While flaring, the pilot reported that the aircraft was at the correct speed with full flaps deployed. A strong gust of wind lifted the right wing, causing the nose to pitch up close to a stalling attitude.

Go-Around and Departure from Runway

The pilot responded by leveling the wings, lowering the nose, and applying engine power to initiate a go-around. However, the aircraft departed the left side of the runway and remained airborne for approximately 600 yards before colliding with a tree.

Pilot Report

The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. He recommended that for windy conditions, a higher landing speed and reduced flap settings should be used to compensate.

Weather Conditions

The nearest weather reporting station, located 13 miles north of the accident site, reported wind from 260 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 14 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jul 2006 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Woodworth, LA?

A 67-hour private pilot lost directional control during a go-around after a wind gust lifted the wing on final approach. The aircraft departed the runway and struck a tree about 600 yards from the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jul 2006 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N9952W, at Woodworth, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a tree. Contributing factors were the sudden wind shift and the gusty wind conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060815X01176. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.