Probable cause
The student pilot's complacency, which led to his improper crosswind correction and subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and ground collision.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot reported that, during landing, he became complacent and did not compensate for a right crosswind. The airplane exited the left side of the runway, crossed over the taxiway, and the right main landing gear collapsed. Subsequently, the right wing and the stabilator struck the ground.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the stabilator.
The student reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The student reported that the wind about the time of the accident was from 220° at 9 knots. The student landed the airplane on runway 18.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA140 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 12, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Slaton, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Slaton Muni (F49)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA24
- N-number
- N9184P
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1967
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.