Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during final approach, he flew a minor crab angle due to a right crosswind. After touchdown, the airplane veered right and traveled off the right side of the runway. The nose gear struck a concrete slab and then collapsed. The airplane sustained damage to the firewall, engine mount, and left wing. Examination of the airplane did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions, and control continuity was confirmed from the rudder to the rudder pedals. In addition, the pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. The recorded wind at the airport about the time of the accident was a nearly direct right crosswind at 8 knots, gusting to 16 knots.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA19TA192 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 23, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Stafford, Virginia
- Nearest airport
- Stafford Regional Airport (RMN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N64003
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1975
- 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.