Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions and failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing roll the airplane encountered a gust of wind. The airplane veered to the right and the left wing scraped the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing, left wing rear spar, and left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported the wind as 350 degrees at 20 knots.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10CA333 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 1, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Missoula, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Missoula (KMSO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180
- N-number
- N3642C
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.