Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate compensation for a crosswind and failure to maintain airplane control during a go-around.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings with a direct 12-knot crosswind. Immediately after touchdown, a gust of wind impacted the airplane, and its left wing rose about 45 degrees. The pilot applied power for a go-around, and the airplane became airborne. The pilot did not compensate for the crosswind, and the airplane drifted sideways and impacted a tree near the runway. The airplane's right wing separated and remained in the tree, and the fuselage and left wing fell to the ground. 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 WPR13LA314 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 7, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Groveland, California
- Nearest airport
- Pine Mountain Lake Airport (E45)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
LOCKWOOD AIRCAM
- N-number
- N94C
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2001
- 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.