No fatalities

Aircraft Veers Left on Landing, Strikes Embankment After Squealing Noise

Summersville, WV, United States

On April 13, 2013, a CESSNA 172N was involved in an aviation accident near Summersville, WV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing, which resulted in a runway excursion. 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 landing on runway 22 with crosswind corrections, a pilot heard a squealing noise, the aircraft veered left, and despite applying takeoff power, it exited the runway and struck an embankment. Examination revealed substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that the aircraft was on a stabilized approach to runway 22 with right crosswind corrections in place. Upon touchdown, the pilot heard a "squealing" noise, and the airplane veered to the left. The pilot applied takeoff power in an attempt to take off, but the aircraft continued left, exited the runway, and struck an embankment.

Post-Accident Examination

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the airplane and documented substantial damage to the right wing spar. Additional damage included inboard crushing of the right wing flap and crushing of the engine firewall. Wheel brake continuity was verified by the inspector. The FAA inspector also noted that there was no flat skid mark on the runway that is synonymous with a skidding tire.

Pilot Report

The pilot did not report any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Apr 2013 CESSNA 172N accident near Summersville, WV?

During landing on runway 22 with crosswind corrections, a pilot heard a squealing noise, the aircraft veered left, and despite applying takeoff power, it exited the runway and struck an embankment. Examination revealed substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Apr 2013 CESSNA 172N accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Apr 2013 involved a CESSNA 172N, at Summersville, WV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.