On May 10, 1982, a Cessna 172 (registration N5266J) operated by Ronald D Opstedahl was involved in an aviation accident near Sturgis, SD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during a ground maneuver in gusting winds, which resulted in the aircraft flipping over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot attempting to take off from an open field after attending an auction lost control during a right turn in gusting winds, causing the aircraft to flip onto its back.
What happened
The pilot landed in an open field to attend an auction. Afterward, he taxied back downwind to begin his takeoff roll. At that time, the wind was gusting to 28 knots. The pilot estimated his ground speed at approximately 15 mph as he initiated a right turn to head into the wind. During this maneuver, the wind caught the right wing of the aircraft. This aerodynamic force caused the plane to flip over onto its back.
The investigation
Following the incident, the pilot reviewed his actions and believed he was taxiing too fast for the conditions. No further mechanical examination or external investigation details were provided in the source record.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during a ground maneuver in gusting winds, which resulted in the aircraft flipping over.
What happened in the 10 May 1982 Cessna 172 accident near Sturgis, SD?
A pilot attempting to take off from an open field after attending an auction lost control during a right turn in gusting winds, causing the aircraft to flip onto its back.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 May 1982 involved a Cessna 172, registration N5266J, operated by Ronald D Opstedahl, at Sturgis, SD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during a ground maneuver in gusting winds, which resulted in the aircraft flipping over.
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