No fatalities

Pilot Reports Crosswind Gust Caused Wing Strike During Landing

Everglades City, FL, United States

On February 26, 2020, a Cessna 172 P was involved in an aviation accident near Everglades City, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot reported that a strong gust of crosswind from the right resulted in the left wing striking the runway during the final approach. 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 reported that a strong gust of crosswind from the right caused the left wing to strike the runway while on final approach. The airplane landed without further incident, but sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

Event Details

According to the pilot's report, the incident occurred while the airplane was on final approach to runway 15. At an altitude of approximately 5 ft above the runway, a strong gust of crosswind from the right caused the airplane's left wing to strike the runway surface.

Pilot Response

The pilot reduced engine power and completed the landing without any further anomalies. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing as a result of the wing striking the runway.

Probable Cause

The pilot reported that a strong gust of crosswind from the right resulted in the left wing striking the runway during the final approach.

Contributing factors

PilotPerformance/control parameters — Not attained/maintainedEffect on operation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Feb 2020 Cessna 172 P accident near Everglades City, FL?

A pilot reported that a strong gust of crosswind from the right caused the left wing to strike the runway while on final approach. The airplane landed without further incident, but sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Feb 2020 Cessna 172 P accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Feb 2020 involved a Cessna 172 P, at Everglades City, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot reported that a strong gust of crosswind from the right resulted in the left wing striking the runway during the final approach.