17 May 2009: PIPER PA-22-150

17 May 2009: PIPER PA-22-150 — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Las Cruces, NM, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in a crosswind. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's decision to land on a runway with a prevailing crosswind.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot elected to land the tailwheel-equipped airplane on a runway with a direct crosswind. Moments later the airplane experienced a gust of wind and momentarily went airborne. Once settled back to the ground; the airplane swerved to the left, the right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing tip impacted the ground. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. A review of airport information revealed that three runways were available for landing, one of which was nearly aligned with the prevailing winds. The airplane's right wing sustained structural damage during the accident. There were no reported malfunctions or failures with the airplane's controls.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • factor Pilot
  • cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Ability to respond/compensate

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 110/07kt, vis 10sm

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