Aircraft: Cessna 172. Injuries: None. Location: Prescott, Ariz. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot was practicing touch-and-go takeoffs and landings in a crosswind.
He said that the landing was uneventful, but as the airplane accelerated for takeoff, it veered to the left.
He was unable to regain control and the airplane went off the runway and collided with a runway sign.
Probable cause: The pilot’s inadequate compensation for a crosswind during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
NTSB Identification: WPR12CA171
This April 2012 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
