Left Wheel Caught The Edge Of The Downslope On The Left Side Of The Runway And Pulled The Airplane Into A Ditch

Location: Frankston, Texas Accident Number: CEN25LA131
Date & Time: March 16, 2025, 14:50 Local Registration: N4672F
Aircraft: Cessna P206 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that during the touchdown, a strong wind gust pushed the airplane to the left. The left wheel caught the edge of the downslope on the left side of the runway and pulled the airplane into a ditch. The pilot attempted unsuccessfully to recover using right rudder. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing when it collided with a tree and came to rest in some brush. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the accident the pilot was landing the airplane on runway 27 with wind from 340° at 9 knots, gusting to 16 knots.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing with a gusting crosswind.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov