Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172R near Princeton, NJ — 2023-08-09

Final reportERA23LA339
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Date
2023-08-09
Location
Princeton, NJ, USA
Airport
39N
Aircraft
CESSNA 172R
Registration
N172FW
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the prevailing wind conditions during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent collision with trees.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot was practicing solo takeoffs and landings in the airport traffic pattern. He successfully completed two takeoffs and landings. He then decided to attempt a soft-field technique takeoff. As the airplane began to lift off the ground, the pilot reported that an unexpected gust of wind from the northwest caught him off guard, and he lost control of the airplane. The airplane subsequently collided with trees, resulting in substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have prevented normal operation of the airplane.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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