MIA03LA099

The pilot, was performing low approaches into a private airstrip with no intention of landing. On the third approach a gust of wind "blew" the airplane to the right towards the trees. The pilot said that before he could recover, the airplane "hit" the ground. An examination of the wreckage after the accident did not reveal any discrepancies.

On April 27, 2003, about 1630 central daylight time, a Cessna 172D, N2371U, registered to and operated by an individual, collided with the ground at a private airstrip, located about 4 miles south of South Ponotoc, Mississippi. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time. No flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The airplane was substantially damaged. The private-rated pilot and one passenger reported no injuries. The flight departed from Pontotoc County Airport, at 1530.

According to the pilot he was attempting his third approach to the grass strip, when a gust of wind "blew" the airplane to the right towards the trees. He said that before he could recover the airplane "hit" the ground.

According to the FAA inspector's statement, the pilot said he was making low approaches into the strip with no intention of landing. The purpose of the flight was to get a good look at the airship to determine if any trees should be removed near the airstrip, because the pilot wanted to move his airplane. He said as he was making a low approach down the runway a gust of wind caught the airplane. The wing touched the runway and forced the aircraft to the ground. The FAA inspector stated that he found evidence of impact about 1/3 of the length of the airstrip from the south end. The aircraft came to rest, turned around and was facing south, about 30 feet from the impact point. He checked continuity of the flight controls and the engine. He found "…no evidence of system or mechanical failures."