On May 18, 2007, a Cessna 150M (registration N9397U) operated by Kerry D. Welch was involved in an aviation accident near Spanish Fork, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's inadequate compensation for gusty crosswind conditions, and his failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. Factors include gusty crosswinds, and a ditch near the runway environment. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after touchdown in gusty crosswind, the aircraft began rocking. The student pilot could not maintain alignment and departed the left side of the runway, crossing a median and taxiway before hitting a ditch, resulting in right wing contact with terrain.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after touchdown in gusty crosswind conditions, the aircraft began rocking from side to side. The student pilot was unable to keep the aircraft aligned with the runway, and it soon departed the left side of the landing surface. After leaving the runway, the aircraft crossed an unpaved median and a taxiway before encountering a small ditch. The ditch stopped the aircraft, and during this encounter, the right wing came into contact with the terrain.
Post-Accident Findings
An examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of any anomaly in the rudder control system or the nosewheel steering system.
Pilot Statement
In a post-accident interview, the pilot stated that the crosswind was more than he was able to handle.