Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported observing a dark layer of cloud just after takeoff and decided to avoid and return to the departure airport. When the airplane main landing gear contacted the ground, the pilot stated that the airplane veered to the left, exited the runway and nosed over before coming to rest. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA089 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 11, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Madera, California
- Nearest airport
- Pine Mountain Lake (E45)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Cessna 172N
- N-number
- N737LU
- 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.