Cessna 172 N34LC accident near Oxford, Connecticut

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to compensate for gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of control of the airplane and subsequent collision with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to practice traffic pattern operations with a simulated power off, 180-degree turning approach to land. While turning toward final approach, the pilot stated that the left wing began to rise as the result of a crosswind gust. The pilot was unable to stop the right turn, which continued until airplane impacted the ground. The airplane then became airborne again before it came to a rest in tall grass and bushes east of the runway. The airplane’s wings and fuselage sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA26LA033 for the full record.