NTSB Factual Report

On January 03, 2004, about 1200 Pacific standard time, a Cessna 172F single engine airplane, N5184F, collided with a light post while attempting to go around at Redlands Municipal Airport (L12), Redlands, California. The airplane was registered to, and operated by, the pilot under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The personal cross-country flight departed from the Riverside Municipal Airport (RAL), Riverside, California, about 1150. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan had not been filed.

In a written statement, the pilot reported that he was attempting to land on runway 26. He received the local weather information from the UNICOM operator at L12. Reported conditions were: winds at 15 knots with gusts to 27 knots; windshear; and a strong crosswind. During the landing roll, the airplane encountered a gust of wind in excess of 30 knots. The airplane veered off the runway into the adjacent gravel area. The pilot applied full power to regain flight control so that he could perform a go-around. After becoming airborne, the leading edge of the airplane's left wing collided with a light post, damaging the aileron. With the left flight control surface damaged, the pilot decided to return to RAL. Reported winds at RAL were from 030 degrees at 8 knots. He landed at RAL uneventfully. The pilot did not report any mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing gusty crosswind condition, and his failure to maintain directional control. Contributing factors were a crosswind and wind gusts.