N364SR

On June 1, 2002, approximately 1940 mountain daylight time, a Cessna 172E single-engine airplane, N364SR, was substantially damaged after it struck a tree while executing touch and go landings at the Navajo Dam Airport, Navajo State Park, New Mexico. The student pilot, sole occupant and registered owner of the airplane, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 solo instructional flight. The flight departed the Four Corners Regional Airport, Farmington, New Mexico, at 1838.

According to the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), the pilot stated that he was performing touch and go landings to runway 24. After the second touch and go landing, the pilot increased engine power to depart. The pilot initiated a slight right turn to avoid striking a bird, and at that time, a wind gust pushed the airplane to the right. The pilot reduced engine power, aborted the takeoff, and the airplane veered off the right side of the runway. Subsequently, the right wing struck a tree, the airplane pivoted around the tree, and then the left wing contacted the ground. The outboard 3 feet section of the left wing was structurally damaged. The pilot stated the wind was from the west-southwest and gusting.