Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain a directional control of the airplane during gusting wind conditions.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, he was attempting a soft field landing on runway 27. Following a stable approach and landing, a gust of wind was encountered. The airplane veered to the right and the pilot was unable to stop the airplane before the right wing struck a wind sock pole. An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration examined the airplane and confirmed substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14CA449 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 20, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bethany Center, New York
- Nearest airport
- Bethany Airpark (8NK4)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 182A
- N-number
- N3785D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1957
- 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.