Cessna 172D N2351U accident near Auburn, Washington

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of airplane control for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane yawed right, and he experienced a loss of aileron control effectiveness while on final approach for landing. He applied engine power to go around, which he perceived to worsen the problem, then chose to reduce power and land. The airplane touched down on the runway about 45° off runway heading, continued off the runway, and impacted a water retention pond.

Examination of the aileron flight control system revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction. There was evidence that the right wing contacted the runway during landing, and aileron control cable tension could not be measured due to the damage to the wing. The reason for the reported aileron flight control malfunction could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR18LA047 for the full record.