No fatalities

Private Pilot Strikes Landing Lights, Experiences Roll During Go-Around

Alturas, CA, United States

On April 4, 2008, a Piper PA-28-236 operated by George Mcarthur was involved in an aviation accident near Alturas, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusty crosswind conditions. The wind gusts were a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 11 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot on a cross-country flight struck landing lights while landing, initiated a go-around, but the airplane rolled left and struck the ground, causing structural damage.

Accident Details

A private pilot was on the final leg of a cross-country flight and was landing on runway 21 at the destination airport. During the landing, the pilot reported striking a "few" landing lights and subsequently initiated a go-around.

Go-Around Maneuver

As the pilot applied engine power, the airplane rolled to the left, and the wing struck the ground. The go-around maneuver did not succeed in aborting the landing.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained structural damage to both wings and the empennage.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, wind was reported from 240 degrees at 20 knots, with gusts to 32 knots.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.

Contributing factors

Causes

Attain/maintain not possible

Other contributing factors

GustsCrosswind

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Apr 2008 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Alturas, CA?

A private pilot on a cross-country flight struck landing lights while landing, initiated a go-around, but the airplane rolled left and struck the ground, causing structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Apr 2008 Piper PA-28-236 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Apr 2008 involved a Piper PA-28-236, operated by George Mcarthur, at Alturas, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusty crosswind conditions. The wind gusts were a contributing factor.