Casualties unknown

Aircraft Veers Off Runway During Aborted Takeoff in Crosswind, Nose Gear Collapses (N4977P)

Independence, MO, US

On January 18, 1986, a Cessna 152 (registration N4977P) operated by Roger Billings was involved in an aviation accident near Independence, MO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 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

During an aborted takeoff in strong crosswinds, the aircraft veered off the runway into a ditch, collapsing the nose gear and striking the right wing on the ground.

Event Overview

During a takeoff attempt, the pilot aborted the procedure due to the aircraft feeling as though it would not become airborne. At the time, strong crosswinds were present. As the pilot initiated the abort, the aircraft departed the runway surface and entered a ditch near the edge of the runway. The impact caused the nose gear to collapse rearward, and the right wing dropped, contacting the ground.

Wind Conditions

Weather observations recorded wind from 290 degrees at 14 knots, with gusts reaching 21 knots. The pilot reported that during preflight, the wind was from the north and aligned with the runway. However, by the time the takeoff roll commenced, the wind had shifted to the northwest.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that the decision to abort was made when the aircraft felt like it was not going to fly. He also reported no control problems at any point during the event.

Aircraft Damage

The aircraft sustained damage including a collapsed nose gear and a right wing that struck the ground after veering off the runway.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Jan 1986 Cessna 152 accident near Independence, MO?

During an aborted takeoff in strong crosswinds, the aircraft veered off the runway into a ditch, collapsing the nose gear and striking the right wing on the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Jan 1986 involved a Cessna 152, registration N4977P, operated by Roger Billings, at Independence, MO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010110X00242. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.