Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary ERA11CA144

Plattsburgh, NY, USA

Aircraft #1

N2593L

CESSNA 172H

Analysis

The certified flight instructor (CFI) and student pilot reported that they were practicing touch-and-go takeoffs and landings. During the second approach, the airplane's airspeed and altitude decreased more than they intended. The left wing contacted the runway resulting in substantial damage. The CFI took authority over the flight controls and landed the airplane. While taxiing to the ramp, they observed that the wind had increased more than reported. The recorded wind conditions at the airport, prior to and after the accident, were variable from 7 to 10 knots, with gusts to 17 knots. The CFI reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane.

Factual Information

The flight instructor and student reported that they were practicing touch-and-go takeoffs and landings, and during the second approach, the airplane's airspeed and altitude decreased further than intended. Subsequently, the left wing contacted the runway resulting in substantial damage to the left wing tip. The flight instructor took control and landed the airplane. While taxiing to the ramp, they observed that the winds had increased more than reported. The winds recorded at the airport, prior to and after the accident, were variable from the west and south at 7 to 10 knots, and gusting up to 17 knots. The flight instructor reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane.

Probable Cause and Findings

The student pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare in gusting wind conditions and the certified flight instructor's delayed remedial action.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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