Wind Gusts Flip Aircraft During Taxi at Charlotte

Casualties unknown • Charlotte, NC, US

A pilot landed successfully in strong winds and gusts at Charlotte, NC, but the aircraft was flipped over during a 180-degree taxi turn after landing.

What happened

Before departure, the pilot received a weather briefing indicating forecast winds at Charlotte, North Carolina, were from 230 degrees at 13 knots with gusts up to 24 knots. The briefing also warned of moderate to severe turbulence and high en route winds. During the flight, the pilot observed a ground speed exceeding 150 mph.

Upon contacting Charlotte Approach Control, the pilot was updated that actual winds were from 230 degrees at 25 knots, gusting to 42 knots. Air traffic control advised the pilot to expect wind shear at 500 feet above ground level, capable of causing a 25-knot loss in airspeed. The pilot continued the approach and landed without incident.

After landing, the pilot attempted a 180-degree turn to taxi toward the fixed-base operator (FBO). During this maneuver, strong wind gusts lifted the tail of the aircraft, causing it to flip over onto its back.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control during a ground turn in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft flipping over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-12-06 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Charlotte, NC?

A pilot landed successfully in strong winds and gusts at Charlotte, NC, but the aircraft was flipped over during a 180-degree taxi turn after landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-12-06 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N7412D, at Charlotte, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain control during a ground turn in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the aircraft flipping over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45227. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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