Aircraft: Piper Malibu. Injuries: None. Location: Springfield, Vt. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot was attempting to land when the airplane encountered a strong gust of wind from the right.
He applied full right rudder in an attempt to compensate for the wind, but the airplane veered off the left side of the runway and into a runway sign and light.
The wind reported at the airport about the time of the accident was from 290° at 7 knots gusting to 15 knots.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in gusting wind conditions.
NTSB Identification: ERA12CA342
This May 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.
7-15 KTS, should have learned how to fly.
Should have done a no flap landing