Accident Overview
On January 22, 2008, at 1330 central standard time, a Cessna 172N, registration N738UE, experienced a loss of directional control and nosed over while landing on runway 34 at South St. Paul Municipal Airport - Flemming Field (SGS) in South St. Paul, Minnesota. The runway was 4,001 feet long and 100 feet wide with compacted snow. The solo cross-country flight, conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, had departed from Albert Lea Municipal Airport (AEL) at 1230. The student pilot was not injured, but the airplane was substantially damaged. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed.
Sequence of Events
The airplane reportedly touched down on the runway centerline and gradually veered toward the right side of the runway. It nosed over after contacting a hard packed snow pile at the edge of the runway. The nose over caused substantial damage to the left wing spar and ribs.
Weather and Wind Conditions
Local winds reported 5 minutes after the accident were from 260 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 18 knots.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing structure, including the spar and ribs.