Cessna 172 N1103F accident near Vernon, Texas

Probable cause

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

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while conducting touch-and-go landings in the local pattern at night, the wind increased and began to gust during the third approach. He added that, he applied full power and performed a go-around. During the next landing, the airplane touched down, and the wind "increased and shifted" to the right. Subsequently, the airplane exited the left side of the runway and came to rest inverted.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, the windshield, and the fuselage.

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

The automated weather observation system located at the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 230° at 19 knots, gusting to 23 knots. The pilot landed on runway 20.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA170 for the full record.