Casualties unknown

Runway Excursion During Landing Due to Gust of Wind (N4642J)

Durango, CO, US

On August 16, 1982, a Cessna 172N (registration N4642J) operated by Clarence Willey was involved in an aviation accident near Durango, CO. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported losing directional control during landing after a gust of wind caused the aircraft to touch down on the left main gear, leading to a runway excursion, nosewheel collapse, and right wing tip damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that while initiating the flare for landing, a gust of wind was encountered. The aircraft subsequently touched down on the left main gear, resulting in a deviation from the runway alignment. Despite applying rudder input, the pilot was unable to regain directional control.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft departed the runway surface, crossed a ditch, and came to rest in sagebrush. During the excursion, the nosewheel collapsed and the right wing tip sustained damage.

Damage

The nosewheel collapsed and the right wing tip was damaged. No other damage was reported.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Aug 1982 Cessna 172N accident near Durango, CO?

A pilot reported losing directional control during landing after a gust of wind caused the aircraft to touch down on the left main gear, leading to a runway excursion, nosewheel collapse, and right wing tip damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Aug 1982 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4642J, operated by Clarence Willey, at Durango, CO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03183. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.