3 Aug 2016: CESSNA 172 K

3 Aug 2016: CESSNA 172 K — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Cross Keys, NJ, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain lateral bank control during final approach, which resulted with an impact with a tree and substantial damage to the left and right wings.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that during the final approach to land, about 200 feet prior to the runway threshold, he turned his attention to the airspeed indicator and "must have turned the yoke to the left". Subsequently, the airplane drifted to the left and impacted a tree with the left wing about 10-12 feet off the ground. The airplane spun to the left and impacted terrain.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left and right wings.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Lateral/bank control — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Pilot
  • Effect on operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 060/05kt, vis 10sm

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