On 22 Dec 2016, a PIPER PA28 140 was involved in an aviation accident near Shreveport, LA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s inadequate compensation for crosswind conditions during the go-around, which resulted in a loss of airplane control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A low-wing airplane experienced multiple crosswind gusts during approach and go-around, resulting in a wing striking the ground and the aircraft cartwheeling.
Accident Sequence
The pilot of the low-wing airplane reported that during the approach in variable crosswind conditions, the airplane encountered a gust of wind from the right. The pilot corrected and continued the approach. Approximately 10 feet above the runway, the airplane encountered another stronger gust of wind from the right, prompting the pilot to decide to go around. During the go-around, the airplane encountered yet another gust of wind from the right. The right wing rose and the left wing dropped and contacted the ground. Subsequently, the airplane cartwheeled and came to rest on the left side of the runway.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Conditions
A review of local weather at approximately the time of the accident reported wind direction 060 degrees true at 6 knots. The pilot was landing on runway 32.
Contributing factors
Lateral/bank control — Not attained/maintainedCrosswind correction — Not attained/maintainedPilotResponse/compensationEffect on operation