Cessna 172R N172FW accident near Princeton, New Jersey

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the prevailing wind conditions during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent collision with trees.

NTSB analysis

The student pilot was practicing solo takeoffs and landings in the airport traffic pattern. He successfully completed two takeoffs and landings. He then decided to attempt a soft-field technique takeoff. As the airplane began to lift off the ground, the pilot reported that an unexpected gust of wind from the northwest caught him off guard, and he lost control of the airplane. The airplane subsequently collided with trees, resulting in substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have prevented normal operation of the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA339 for the full record.