Cessna 182P N58625 accident near Williamsburg, Virginia

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing in variable direction and gusting wind conditions, resulting in a landing off the side of the runway and impact with a drainage culvert.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, shortly after he climbed above the tree tops during the takeoff initial climb, he determined that he was uncomfortable flying in the gusting wind conditions. He reported that he completed one traffic pattern and made an approach to runway 31. He recalled that during the landing flare, the airplane encountered a wind gust and was blown to the right, and off of the runway. The pilot reported that the airplane touched down in the safety area on the right side of the runway and the airplane impacted a drainage culvert where it came to rest. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall and the right wing spar.

The pilot reported that there were not any pre-accident mechanical failures or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation prior to the accident.

The meteorological aerodrome report at the accident airport reported: KJGG 141915Z AUTO 28013G18KT 220V300 10SM CLR 28/12 A2972 RMK AO1

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA235 for the full record.