Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Control During Go-Around in Gusty Crosswinds (N5759T)

Pleasanton, KS, US

On March 16, 2007, a Cessna 172E (registration N5759T) was involved in an aviation accident near Pleasanton, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a go-around in gusty 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot lost control of the airplane while attempting a go-around in gusty crosswinds, resulting in the left wing striking trees and significant structural damage to the aircraft.

What happened

The incident occurred during an approach phase where the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver. Conditions at the time included gusty crosswinds, which presented challenging flight dynamics. During this critical phase of flight, the pilot was unable to maintain control of the airplane.

As the aircraft became uncontrollable, the left wing made contact with a tree. The impact caused the airplane to spin around, leading to a second collision with another tree. Following these strikes, the airplane came to rest in a nose-down position situated between the two trees.

The investigation

A post-accident examination of the wreckage was conducted to assess the extent of the damage. The inspection revealed that both wings and the engine cowling were crushed. These findings are consistent with the described sequence of impacts with the trees during the uncontrolled spin.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a go-around in gusty crosswinds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Mar 2007 Cessna 172E accident near Pleasanton, KS?

The pilot lost control of the airplane while attempting a go-around in gusty crosswinds, resulting in the left wing striking trees and significant structural damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Mar 2007 involved a Cessna 172E, registration N5759T, at Pleasanton, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a go-around in gusty crosswinds.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070430X00473. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.