Primary finding
Probable cause
Pilot's improper crosswind correction, his loss of directional control, and improper supervision by the instructor pilot. A factor was the crosswind
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During an instructional flight the private pilot failed to apply corrections for the crosswind conditions and the airplane struck a runway light. The private pilot was receiving instruction in crosswind landings, this was the 'first real crosswind landing' he had performed. Wind was from 210 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 18
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 10, 1993, at 1430 central daylight time (CDT) a Piper PA 32 300, N4079R was substantially damaged during landing at Russellville, Arkansas. Neither pilot or their passenger were injured. Weather for the local area flight was visual meteorological conditions. The airplane was owned and operated by Paul J. Henderson of Russellville, Arkansas. The following information was provided to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector by the pilots. They had landed and during the landing roll the airplane was effected by a left cross wind. The wind blew the airplane to the right and it struck the runway lighting system resulting in damage to the left horizontal stabilator and the empennage area. An additional telephonic interview with the private pilot revealed that he had contracted with the instructor pilot to provide training in crosswind landings and other flight time. The private pilot also reported that the instructor pilot was dictating what and when the maneuvers would be performed. Following the accident the private pilot reported that the instructor pilot stated "there will be no charge for this one." The private pilot further reported that "this was his first real crosswind landing." The pilot reported the was from 210 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 18. -