Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind condition, resulting in a runway excursion.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, as the flight was inbound for landing, the wind was 60 degrees off the runway heading at 19 knots, gusting to 25 knots. He described the landing as hard followed by minor bounces. The airplane operator discovered propeller tip damage and substantial damage to the firewall the following day. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA409 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 19, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Santa Teresa, New Mexico
- Nearest airport
- Dona Ana County Airport (5T6)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172N
- N-number
- N739ZN
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.