Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the gusting crosswind and improper landing flare.
NTSB analysis
The pilot-rated passenger seated in the right seat reported that, just prior to landing, the pilot listened to the airport's automated weather observing system, which reported a 90-degree crosswind of 7 knots gusting to 14 knots. During the landing sequence, and just before touchdown, the airplane suddenly lost altitude and landed hard, striking the left wing and landing gear on the runway. Subsequently, the airplane bounced and veered to the left. The airplane bounced a second time before impacting and coming to rest against three unoccupied, parked airplanes. Postaccident examination verified flight control continuity throughout the rudder, elevator, right aileron, and left flap. The damage to the left aileron outboard hinge and right flap control arm were both consistent with impact damage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10LA250 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 20, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Columbia, California
- Nearest airport
- Columbia Airport (O22)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RV6-A
- N-number
- N578RJ
- 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.