Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll in crosswind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion, ground loop, and impact with the ground.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported the airplane "landed smoothly on the centerline", but during the landing roll, the wind shifted to a 90 degree right crosswind. The pilot applied crosswind correction and brakes, but the airplane veered to the right, exited the runway, ground looped, and the right wing impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and aileron, and left horizontal stabilizer and elevator.
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA111 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 22, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Covington, Tennessee
- Nearest airport
- Covington Muni (M04)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N5786R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- 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.