Cessna 177 N30753 accident near Gooding, Idaho

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control after encountering an unexpected wind gust during landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported during the approach to the runway, there were no encounters with turbulence. After crossing over the approach end of the runway and retarding the throttle to idle in preparation for the landing flare, the airplane’s left wing was “abruptly” pushed upward. The pilot was unable to maintain control as the right main landing gear and the nose wheel hit the runway, followed by the left main landing gear hitting the runway hard. The airplane then exited the right side of the runway into a stand of weeds before proceeding into a small ditch. The pilot added power to get the airplane back on the runway and subsequently taxied to the ramp. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA325 for the full record.