Piper PA 28R N4792T accident near Wichita, Kansas

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in gusting crosswind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the landing roll in gusting crosswind conditions, the airplane veered off the runway to the left into the grass. During the runway excursion, the right wing impacted an airport sign, which resulted in substantial damage. After the airplane had stopped, the pilot taxied to the ramp without further incident.

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport revealed that, about 2 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 310° at 22 knots, gusting to 27 knots. The airplane landed on runway 1R.

According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook for the accident airplane, the maximum demonstrated crosswind component for the airplane is 20 miles per hour/17.3 knots.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA123 for the full record.