NTSB Factual Report

On March 23, 2003, at 0915 central standard time, a Piper PA-28-181, N92505, operated by Thunder Aviation Inc. as a rental airplane, was substantially damaged during landing after it veered off runway 12 (5,500 by 100 feet, concrete) at Owatonna Degner Regional Airport, Owatonna, Minnesota. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was not operating on a flight plan. The private pilot and three passengers were uninjured. The flight departed from Flying Cloud Airport, Flying Cloud, Minnesota, at 0840.

The pilot reported he was using a "slip" to counter the crosswind and keep the aircraft on the centerline of the runway while on approach. The pilot noted the airplane was wings level prior to touchdown. The pilot indicated the airplane turned to the left after touchdown and veered off the runway. He then added power and lifted the nose to avoid striking runway lights and a ditch. The pilot stated the stall warning horn sounded and the airplane impacted a field. The pilot indicated he powered down the aircraft and assisted passengers to safety.

The weather reporting facility located at the accident site reported the winds at 0917 from 190 degrees at 14 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilots loss of directional control on landing and subsequent collision with terrain. Contributing factors were the crosswind, the airport lights, and the ditch.