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Runway Excursion and Gear Separation During Crosswind Landing

Fort Collins, CO, United States

On June 22, 2009, a PIPER PA-22-150 operated by Bradley M. Gunter was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Collins, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a crosswind landing. Contributing to the accident was the instructor's delayed action in regaining control of the airplane. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During a landing, a pilot applied excessive rudder after being instructed to use more, causing a yaw and runway excursion. The left gear separated, and the left wing and propeller struck the ground.

Accident Sequence

According to the instructor, the pilot had executed several satisfactory landings prior to the accident. On the final approach and landing, the pilot applied aft elevator and left aileron to correct for crosswind conditions but did not apply sufficient right rudder. The instructor verbally directed the pilot to increase rudder input. The pilot then applied an excessive amount of right rudder, causing the aircraft to yaw sharply to the right. The instructor attempted to counter the yaw with opposite rudder but was unable to prevent the deviation. The aircraft subsequently veered off the right side of the runway. During the excursion, the left main landing gear separated, and the left wing and propeller contacted the ground.

Post-Accident Examination

A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical anomalies.

Contributing factors

Causes

Performance/control parameters — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Instructor/check pilotEffect on operation

Related events

Same aircraft family

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