Accident Details
On November 15, 2010, at approximately 1545 central standard time, a Cessna 172K, registration N7183G, was substantially damaged when it collided with trees near Kestrel Airpark (1T7) in San Antonio, Texas. The personal flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The private pilot and two passengers sustained serious injuries. The cross-country flight had departed Kerrville, Texas, and was en route to 1T7.
Witness Reports
According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector who visited the accident site, the airplane had departed 1T7 earlier that morning, flew to Kerrville for lunch, and was returning when the accident occurred. Witnesses observed the airplane attempting to land with a tailwind on runway 30, which measures 3,000 feet by 40 feet and is asphalt. During the approach, the airplane flew toward the runway and, as it continued toward the departure end, it leveled off. Subsequently, the airplane struck trees at the departure end, resulting in both wings being bent and the fuselage being crushed.
Pilot Statement
In a written statement, the pilot reported that he was attempting to land when the wind became very strong and swirling. He attempted to go around, but the "wing stalled." The airplane then hit several trees and came to rest inverted.
Examination and Weather
An examination of the airframe and its systems, conducted by an investigator from Cessna Aircraft and an FAA inspector, revealed no anomalies. The nearest weather observation station recorded winds from 190 degrees at 10 knots.