No fatalities

Crosswind During Landing Leads to Runway Excursion and Nose-Over

Mayaquez, PR, United States

On February 19, 2012, a CESSNA 172M was involved in an aviation accident near Mayaquez, PR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot did not maintain control of the airplane while landing in crosswind conditions. 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

A pilot encountered a strong crosswind just prior to landing on runway 9. After aborting the landing, the airplane veered off the runway and nosed over, sustaining substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.

Accident Sequence

The pilot reported that winds were calm during the approach to runway 9. However, just before touchdown, the airplane experienced a strong crosswind. The pilot applied full engine power and attempted to abort the landing. Despite the go-around effort, the airplane touched down, veered off the runway surface, and nosed over.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and the airframe surrounding the windshield.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were observed. The aircraft and engine were operating normally before the event.

Wind Conditions

Winds reported at the airport approximately 30 minutes prior to the accident were from 320 degrees at 13 knots.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Crosswind

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Feb 2012 CESSNA 172M accident near Mayaquez, PR?

A pilot encountered a strong crosswind just prior to landing on runway 9. After aborting the landing, the airplane veered off the runway and nosed over, sustaining substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Feb 2012 CESSNA 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Feb 2012 involved a CESSNA 172M, at Mayaquez, PR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot did not maintain control of the airplane while landing in crosswind conditions.