Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 177 near Gordonville, TX — 2014-08-23

Final reportCEN14LA451
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Date
2014-08-23
Location
Gordonville, TX, USA
Airport
3T0
Aircraft
CESSNA 177
Registration
N3202T
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

A loss of directional control during a crosswind landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he flew a visual approach with a left crosswind to a turf runway. As the airplane descended below a tree line, the wind decreased, and the airplane drifted left during the landing roll. The pilot applied right rudder, but the airplane did not respond. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and impacted multiple trees. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. After the accident, the pilot stated that he believed the passenger's foot might have blocked the rudder pedals. The accident is consistent with a loss of directional control during a crosswind landing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have ensured passenger's foot was clear of rudder pedals before landing.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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